Celebrating Te Tai Tokerau Local Heroes

We are proud to celebrate our very own Roddy Hapati Pihema, a community board member for the Kawakawa-Moerewa Subdivision, whose dedication to his community has earned him a place among the 100 Tower New Zealand Local Hero Medallists for 2026.

This recognition reflects the impact of his mahi and the deep gratitude felt by the whānau and communities he supports.

Roddy serves on 19 committees and boards where he advocates for elderly people, children, and vulnerable whānau. In times of crisis he steps up, coordinating flood response, clearing stormwater drains, and using social media to keep whānau safe. His calm and compassionate leadership has saved lives and earned praise from civil defence, councillors, and the mayor.

He also supports long term community wellbeing by helping to deliver initiatives such as Feed the Families and school and community garden projects. Guided by humility, Roddy accepted his nomination only when he realised it reflected the thanks of the community. He has dedicated his medal to the many unsung kaitiaki who serve without expectation of recognition.

We also congratulate the other local hero medallists from Te Tai Tokerau / Northland who have been awarded in recognition of their contributions and dedication they provide to their communities earning them a well-deserved space on this list of local heroes.

• Annette Hall
• Rachel Hill
• Keegan Jones
• Tane and Maryjane Manukau
• John Paitai.

The 100 Local Hero Medallists are now in the running for the 2026 Tower New Zealand Local Hero of the Year Award Te Pou Toko o te Tau.

Semifinalists for the Local Hero Award, along with six other award categories, will be announced on December 11, with the finalists revealed on February 26 next year. The winners will be named at the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards gala on March 19, 2026.