Do you know someone in Upper Hutt who is 13-18 years old and who's smashing goals, giving back, or making a difference in our community? Then we want to hear about it!
Nominations for Ngā Tohu Whakanui Rangatahi | Youth Awards 2026 are now closed. Finalists and winners will be announced here after the award ceremony on 12 May 2026.
Click on a category to read more.
This award is sponsored by Whirinaki Whare Taonga.
Celebrating young people’s creativity and/or cultural expression. This could be through visual arts, performing arts, music, writing, theatre, dance, kapa haka, or any other way they share and celebrate creativity or culture.
This award is sponsored by Mangaroa Farms.
Recognising young people who have made an outstanding contribution to protecting or improving our environment. This could include caring for nature, leading sustainability projects, raising awareness or inspiring others to act for the planet.
This award is sponsored by the Rimutaka Lions Club and the Silverstream Lions Club.
Celebrating young people who show outstanding leadership and make a positive contribution to their community. This award recognises those who lead by example, empower and support others through their actions, and give their time and energy to strengthening the people around them.
This award is sponsored by Youthtown.
Celebrating young people who shine through their courage, determination, and personal growth. This award honours those who embrace challenges with a positive spirit, show commitment to their goals, and inspire others through their strength and perseverance.
This award is sponsored by NZCIS.
Celebrating young people who show outstanding commitment, enthusiasm, and positive spirit in sport or physical activity. This award recognises those who give their best, excel, support their teammates, show dedication, and contribute to the spirit of their team or activity.
Reach out to: Mel Smith – melanie.smith@uhcc.govt.nz
Click on a question to read the answer and find out more.
Yes, you can! You can put yourself forward for an award, or nominate an awesome young person in Upper Hutt.
No, unfortunately not.We want to celebrate Upper Hutt's young people and the many ways in which they show up for their schools, clubs, groups, and the community.
Yes, you can! Our city has lots of fab people doing fab things, so feel free to nominate more than one awesome young person.
No, they don't. These awards are about celebrating effort, contribution, and spirit– not just being "the best".
All nominations will be reviewed by a panel.
They will decide on the finalists, and we will then invite the finalists to the awards ceremony on Tuesday, 12 May 2026.
Yes! We'll let them know about the nomination, and we may contact them for more information if needed.