Five special people who have given back to the Wairoa community were honoured at a Civic Awards ceremony in town this week.

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little described the awards as acknowledging the people who roll up their sleeves, put in the mahi, and make this community what it is.

The five recipients are Hana Whaanga, Jackie Te Amo, Jane O’Sullivan, John Gemmell and former Wairoa resident Jean Cooper.

Mr Little said the awards are not about titles or recognition – they’re about heart, service, and the impact these incredible people have on Wairoa every single day.

In presenting the awards, Mr Little said, “Today is about you. Your dedication, your sacrifice, and your love for this town and community deserve to be recognised. To everyone here supporting them, thank you for standing behind these local legends. “The gifts these five recipients have given us are legacies for our future generations.”

The ceremony was held at the Wairoa District Council, where recipients received a certificate and medal. Mr Little will present Jean Cooper with her award next week.

Citations:

Hana Whaanga – Active contributions to education in Wairoa for over 60 years

For more than 60 years, Hana Whaanga has been a pillar of education in the Wairoa district, shaping the minds and futures of countless students. Teaching across multiple generations, she has left a lasting legacy in many families, with parents, children, and even grandchildren benefitting from her guidance and wisdom.

Although she retired 30 years ago, Hana’s influence remains strong. She is held in the utmost respect by the many students she taught and their families, who continue to value the wisdom and care she imparted to them.

More than a teacher, she is a mentor and role model whose impact will be felt for generations to come.

We honour Hana Whaanga for her unwavering commitment to education and the generations she has inspired.

Jackie Te Amo – Active contributions to Te Rohe o Te Wairoa for nearly 30 years

Jackie Te Amo has made significant and active contributions to Te Wairoa Rohe since 1997. As an ordained minister, Jackie began her journey under the guidance of Reverend Pona Reedy, eventually becoming a deacon in 2001, and later, an ordained priest and Minita a Rohe (Canon), a position of great respect within the Anglican Church. She has faithfully served her community, offering support to whānau in Wairoa 24/7, living her faith with dedication.

Her ministry was not her initial goal; instead, Jackie sought to learn Te Reo Māori.

However, Reverend Pona Reedy led her to the Bible, marking the beginning of her lifelong journey in ministry and language. Jackie went on to learn Te Reo Māori through Te Ataarangi.

Jackie has demonstrated a deep commitment to her community. She completed a Masters in Theological Studies and is an active member of various boards and governance groups in Wairoa, generously offering her time and expertise.

Jackie continues to provide unwavering support, aroha, and manaaki to the whānau of our rohe, embodying the spirit of service and care. Her selflessness and dedication make her a deserving recipient of the Wairoa Civic Award.

Jane O’Sullivan – Active contributions to the Wairoa community for over 40 years.

Jane O’Sullivan has dedicated decades to serving the Wairoa community with kindness and generosity. A long-time Lions Club member and inaugural president of the Wairoa Lionesses in 1982, she has continuously given back through her involvement in Community Patrol and Age Concern, where she is currently serving her second term as president.

Jane has played a key role in supporting the elderly, from organising raffles to arranging transport for medical appointments. She was also awarded the Dignity Champion of Wairoa for her work around ensuring frozen meals are available for those in need.

Following Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, Jane opened her home to Gavin Jones, a respected community member who had been displaced by the disaster, demonstrating her unwavering compassion.

Beyond her volunteer work, she has a passion for horticulture and is a member of the Orchid Society. Always giving and always caring, Jane embodies the spirit of community service, and we proudly recognise her today.

John Gemmell – Active contributions to the Wairoa community for over 60 years

John Gemmell has dedicated over 60 years of service to the Wairoa community through extensive involvement in local organisations, governance, and public service. A respected businessman, he has contributed to numerous clubs and associations, including the Wairoa Rotary Club, the Wairoa Business and Development Association, and various sports and community groups.

John has also served as a Justice of the Peace since 1985, undertaking judicial training to support the justice system. His leadership extends to roles on the Wairoa Borough Council, Civil Defence, and many other initiatives that have strengthened the Wairoa district.

 His lifelong commitment to community service makes him a deserving recipient of the Wairoa Civic Award.

Jean Cooper

Jean Cooper has been a dedicated and active member of the Wairoa community for over a decade.

After moving to Wairoa in 2011, she quickly became involved with the Senior Citizens Association, serving as treasurer for several years and contributing significantly to its activities. She also played a key role in the Grey Power Association, stepping in as treasurer after the passing of Les Hine and continuing to serve for three years.

Jean’s commitment extended beyond administrative roles – she was deeply involved in organising community events, particularly the Grey Power Christmas dinners, where she ensured that up to 300 members enjoyed a meal at a minimal cost. Her dedication to the Wairoa Club was equally strong, serving on the committee for many years and always giving 100 percent to every task she undertook.

Her efforts were always focused on the wellbeing of others, looking after people and keeping their best interests at heart. She was also instrumental in organising social activities such as bus trips, indoor bowls, and card games for senior citizens.

Jean relocated to Whanganui in December following the June floods, but her contributions to Wairoa’s community spirit remain a lasting legacy. Her unwavering commitment and selfless service make her a deserving recipient of this civic award.

27 March 2025

Back to Archive