Kia ora koutou,
In this remarkable 184th year since the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, I am honoured and thrilled to announce the recipient of the UK New Zealander of the Year Award 2024: Julia Maile.
Julia was honoured amidst the splendour of the Waldorf Hotel in central London on the 9th of February, in the presence of her husband and a distinguished gathering of 200 guests. The award, presented by the High Commissioner, included a bespoke korowai crafted by whaea Jackie Naylor of Ngāti Rānana, a precious pounamu, and a sponsored trip courtesy of Stoke Travel. The evening was truly enchanting, with guests bedecked in korowai, elegant evening attire, setting the stage for a memorable occasion.
Julia's remarkable recognition stems from her unwavering dedication and inspirational leadership. She is the driving force behind the MerryGoRound charity, which she founded after learning from the Islington Gazette that 47% of children in the borough are living in poverty. MerryGoRound facilitates the sharing of children's clothes within the community, fostering a circle of love and solidarity.
Julia embodies the ethos of "Actions not words, We and not Me." Her compassionate spirit, coupled with her team's dedication, transcends mere rhetoric, manifesting in tangible actions that uplift and empower those in need. Through her selfless endeavors, Julia has not only demonstrated her commitment to the community but has also exemplified the essence of Aroha, igniting a ripple effect of kindness and compassion.
Julia's induction into the esteemed list of winners is a testament to her profound impact, joining luminaries who have left an indelible mark on the NZ-UK landscape.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the other finalists: Molly Bedingfield, Bryce Check, Rebecca Scown, and Mary Strang. Each finalist embodies the quintessential 'Kiwi spirit,' enriching the bonds between Aotearoa NZ and the UK through their generosity, knowledge, and initiative.
This recognition underscores the transformative power of community engagement, exemplified by the simplicity of actions that profoundly impact lives. I commend all nominees and finalists for their outstanding contributions, which resonate deeply within our shared NZ/UK community.
I express sincere gratitude to our sponsors, supporters, and suppliers for their unwavering support of the Waitangi Day Ball 2024. Special thanks are due to our culinary and wine partners for adding flavour and libation to the evening and to our esteemed singers, Jonathan Leamlu ONZM and Aivale Cole. I also extend heartfelt appreciation to Ngāti Rānana, our exceptional auctioneer Charles Foley, and the delightful MC, Martha MacKenzie-Minifie, for their invaluable contributions to the success of the event. Lastly, I thank all attendees for their presence and generosity, which enables the New Zealand Society to continue its charitable endeavours.
The annual New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball remains a beacon of kotahitanga, unity, and philanthropy, raising funds for the Society's Charitable Grant Fund. Through this initiative, we can continue to support outstanding New Zealanders across the United Kingdom who are dedicated to strengthening the ties between our two nations. Our A Kotahi Rau Waka 100 Waka Campaign is part of that legacy. We are seeking at least 100 supporters who can commit to donating or fundraising £240 per year until 2027. This will help us push the fund to the £100,000 mark and then we can really get behind emerging kiwi talent in the UK in future
Julia will join an esteemed list of winners: Craig Fenton 2023, Corey Baker 2022, Tania Bearsley 2020, Ereti Mitchell 2019, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa ONZ CH DBE AC 2018, Lady Alexandra Smith 2017, Mark Wilson 2016, Katherine Corich 2015, Eric Tracey 2014, Bronwen Horton 2013, Kent Gardner 2012, Terry Smith 2011, Anna Hansen MBE 2010, Esther Kerr Jessop ONZM, QSM 2009, Dr Ian Conrich 2008, Jonathan Rennie 2007, Tom & Susan Glynn 2006, Peter Leslie 2005, Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas 2004, The Rt. Hon Don McKinnon 2003, Harry Mahon OBE 2002, Michael Campbell CNZM 2001, Sir Mark Todd 2000 and Peter Gordon ONZM 1999.
Thank you all for your support!
Ngā mih nui,
The Hon Clarence Tan President, New Zealand Society (UK)
Click here to see all previous winners, community winners and runner ups.
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