On Tuesday 11 August 2026, in the magnificent surrounds of Hamilton Gardens, Mayor Tim Macindoe presented the 2026 Hamilton City Council Civic Awards and the prestigious Hamilton Kirikiriroa Medal to outstanding members of the community.
2026 Civic Award Recipients. Top row, left to right: Councillor Anna Casey-Cox, Councillor Graeme Mead, Ross Hargood, Edgar Wilson, Rupert d’Cruze, Yongjoo Kim, Councillor Mesh Macdonald, Councillor Sue Moroney, Councillor Emma Pike. Bottom row, left to right: Councillor Rachel Karalus, Councillor Robbie Neha, Wiremu Puke, Gail Jones, Professor Tom Roa (Hamilton Kirikiriroa Medal Recipient), Mayor Tim Macindoe, Miao Fan, Jarnail Singh Rahon, on behalf of the Waikato SBST, Deputy Mayor Geoff Taylor, Councillor Jamie Strange.
The Civic Awards recognise individuals and groups who have made exceptional contributions to the city and people of Hamilton, mostly in a voluntary capacity, across five categories: health and wellbeing, arts and culture, sport and recreation, education, and community.
Recipients were selected by the City Honours Panel, with their recommendations ratified by Council on 26 June 2026.
Mayor Tim Macindoe said the Civic Awards are an important way for Hamilton City Council to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary efforts made by Hamiltonians, in service to the wellbeing of our communities.
“The breadth and impact of contributions made by this year’s recipients are remarkable. Among them are healthcare and disability advocates, champions of multicultural community engagement, leaders recognised for their exceptional and long-standing service in business, individuals who have played pivotal roles in major civic infrastructure development and governance, guardians of Maaori heritage and te reo Māori, champions of music, arts and culture, and educators who inspire young minds, thereby helping to shape the future of our city and communities.
“On behalf of our city’s residents and Hamilton City Council, I extend my sincere congratulations and heartfelt thanks to all award recipients. Their remarkable service and commitment in diverse areas reflect the very best of Hamilton Kirikiriroa and remind us of the strength and community spirit that make our city so special. Thank you also to those who took the time to nominate our community heroes,” said the Mayor.
The significance of the ceremony was further enriched by the presence of distinguished guests, including Freedom of the City holders, past Hamilton Kirikiriroa Medal and Civic Honours recipients, and leaders from across civic, business, and community life.
Hamilton Kirikiriroa Medal Recipient
Professor Tom Roa CNZM JP for his outstanding service to the city and its people. Read more about his service here
2026 Civic Awards’ Recipients
One group and seven individuals were honoured:
Edgar Wilson - in the category of Community
Yongjoo Kim - in the category of Community
Miao Fan - in the category of Community
Gail Jones - in the category of Community
The Waikato Shaheed E Azam Bhajat Singh Sports & Cultural Trust - in the category of Health & Wellbeing
Rupert D'Cruze - in the category of Arts & Culture
Ross Hargood - in the category of Arts & Culture
Wiremu Taylor Puke - in the category of Arts & Culture
As the event concluded, Mayor Tim Macindoe reflected, “I left with a deep sense of pride in our people and city. It was a privilege to present awards to such a talented and dedicated group of Hamiltonians who have done so much to serve and enrich our community.”
Nominate a Community Hero
Nominations for Civic Awards are open year-round. To nominate someone who has made a significant difference to Hamilton city and its people, please visit hamilton.govt.nz/city-honours or email civicawards@hcc.govt.nz.