Source: Radio New Zealand
Dame Julie Chapman, Sir Richard Faull and Sir Rod Drury have been named as the 2026 finalists for New Zealander of the Year. RNZ
Kiwis who reflect the “heart and soul” of Aotearoa have been named as finalists for New Zealander of the Year.
Thousands of people were nominated but the choice came down to three individuals who stood out for the judging panel.
They are Dame Julie Chapman, Sir Richard Faull and Sir Rod Drury.
Pet Refuge founder Dame Julie Chapman. Supplied
Dame Julie leads organisations Kidscan and Pet Refuge, while Sir Richard is a neuroscientist whose expertise have helped better understand the human brain.
Sir Rod is the founder of Xero and works to “shape Aotearoa New Zealand’s technology landscape through innovation, investment, and mentorship”.
Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards patron Miriama Kamo said the three finalists “reflect the heart and soul of Aotearoa over the past twelve months – people leading with purpose, courage and heart”.
“Across every category, we see service, innovation and kaitiakitanga in action: protecting people and the planet, strengthening communities,
advancing equity, and shaping bold solutions for the future.
Neuroscientist Sir Richard Faull. Sonia Sly/RNZ.
“Together, they remind us that real leadership is grounded in compassion – and that when we care deeply and act bravely, we can change lives.”
Kiwibank chief executive Steve Jurkovich said the finalists were leaders who were shaping the future of New Zealand in very different ways.
“From protecting our most vulnerable tamariki (children) and whānau (family), to driving innovation and backing the next generation of Kiwi enterprise, to advancing life changing neuroscience research.
Xero founder Sir Rod Drury. XERO
“Their impact reaches from our local communities to the global stage.”
Jurkovish said it was a privilege to celebrate the finalists.
Finalists for six other categories have also been announced.
The awards will be held on 19 March in Auckland.
Go Media Young New Zealander of the Year
- Harlem-Cruz Ihaia
- Léon Bristow
- Lucy Blakiston
Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year
- Alan and Hazel Kerr
- Dame Claudia Orange
- Stewart Bull
2degrees New Zealand Innovator of the Year
- Craig Piggott
- James Hayes
- Jonathan Ring and Leatham Landon-Lane
Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu New Zealand Sustainability Leader of the Year
- Mike Casey
- Russel and Teresa Trow
- Valerie Marie Ngaoa Teraitua
Tower New Zealand Local Hero of the Year
- Dr Jeremy Tātere MacLeod
- Māhera Maihi
- Terri Middleton
Mitre 10 New Zealand Community of the Year
- Hōhepa Hawke’s Bay
- Rei Kōtuku Charitable Trust – Children’s Palliative Care Service
- Safeguarding Children Initiative
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
