7 May 2013
Nominations for the 2013 Rotorua Community Leadership Awards are now open.
The awards are run in conjunction with Rotorua District Council, Sir Peter Blake Trust, Daily Post, More FM and Rotorua Chamber of Commerce.
Local residents can nominate anyone in the community who demonstrates outstanding leadership and dedication across seven categories - Sport, Youth, Iwi, Business, Community Service, The Arts, and The Environment.
Rotorua mayor Kevin Winters said even though Sir Peter Blake died 11 years ago, the country hasn't forgotten the huge Kiwi pride felt during the 1995 America's Cup, in large to his efforts.
Sir Peter Blake was a man who loved his country and loved sailing. To beat the best in the world against all odds, and then to successfully defend the title five years later, is no mean feat.
We hope this award will inspire and motivate local people to achieve their goals, no matter how big they may seem. Through Sir Peter's legacy, worldwide environmental issues have been highlighted, including warming of ocean currents and pollution of water ways and oceans.
He has been a real mentor for me in getting the best out of individuals, resulting in a team that makes the boat go faster'. And who can forget his lucky red socks?
Nominations close Friday 31 May.