Honouring Community Members
Two outstanding community members, Dennis Emery and Hinekahu Gotty, were celebrated as this year’s recipients of MDC’s Community Honours award.
While their contributions are uniquely their own, a common thread of lifelong service runs through both of their stories. Their nominations and the ceremony itself highlighted a rich tapestry of professional and personal accolades, showcasing the tremendous impact these individuals have made across various sectors.
“When multi page nominations are received it’s hard to condense a lifetime of service to a manageable citation”, Mayor Helen Worboys explains. “Having the Council Chambers filled with family, community members and friends of both Dennis Emery and Hinekahu Gotty during the ceremony reaffirmed the impact the recipients have made throughout the community.”
For both Dennis and Hinekahu, a commitment to cultural well-being, integrity, and preservation has been central to their mission of service. They embody a hands-on approach to leadership, actively engaging in the everyday tasks that many overlook. What truly sets them apart, however, is their unwavering commitment to inclusivity, nurture, and a personal touch in all they do, making them exemplary citizens in our community.
To read their complete citations visit: Community Honours Recipients | Manawatū District Council (mdc.govt.nz)
(L to R) :Hinekahu Gotty and Dennis Emery MDC's 2024 Community Honours recipient.