Certificates of Recognition 2025

Since 1995, the Civic Awards have recognised many exceptional members of the Horowhenua community. People who give their time, energy and skills to clubs, committees and community groups. Volunteers come from all walks of life, motivated by many different reasons. Responding to a need, staying active, building connections or creating a sense of belonging.

Through their dedication, volunteers build networks of support and friendships that extend far beyond their immediate contributions. In today’s world, volunteering is a powerful way to make a difference. It reminds us that each of us can create positive change and help shape a brighter, stronger community.

Tonight, we celebrate those who have devoted countless hours ….and in many cases, decades of service. As a member of the selection committee, I can say the nominations we received this year were outstanding and made selecting the final recipients a real challenge. To everyone who submitted nominations and letters of support, thank you for helping us honour these remarkable individuals.

Certificates of Recognition were presented to:

Corey Prouting

Corey Prouting is, quite simply, the heart and soul of hockey in the Horowhenua. His dedication and leadership have been instrumental in growing the game from grassroots to representative level, inspiring players of all ages and strengthening our sporting community.

From his early days as a talented Waiopehu College player and natural leader, Corey’s commitment to the sport has never wavered. Over the past 15 years, he has coached an extraordinary range of teams, from primary and college players through to representative and men’s sides, devoting thousands of volunteer hours to developing skill and confidence in young athletes.

Corey has coached multiple Horowhenua age-grade teams, guiding players from Under 11s through to Under 18s, and leading sides to outstanding success, including a national Hatch Cup victory. His achievements extend to the national level, where he has coached Central District and Manawatū men’s teams, helping elevate Horowhenua talent onto the wider stage.

Locally, he has revitalised club hockey in Levin, coaching the Men’s Premier team and serving as Chair of the Levin Hockey Club, now home to multiple men’s and women’s teams.

Beyond results and trophies, Corey’s greatest legacy is the community he has built. His mentorship has seen countless young people discover a sense of purpose, pride and belonging, many continuing to higher levels of the game. Parents, players and fellow coaches alike speak of his encouragement and deep belief in others.

Balancing his dedication to hockey with life as a husband, father and farmer, Corey’s contribution is made possible with the unwavering support of his wife and family, who share in this recognition tonight.

For his exceptional service, leadership and lifelong commitment to the game of hockey and the people who play it, we award Corey Prouting with a Certificate of Recognition for Services to Sport.

Frank Taylor

For more than two decades, Frank Taylor has been a cornerstone of the Waitārere Beach community – a friendly face, a steady hand and a tireless volunteer whose contributions have strengthened both the safety and spirit of this coastal village.

Although residing in Koputaroa, Frank has called Waitārere Beach his happy place for the past 24 years. Since joining the Levin Waitārere Surf Life Saving Club in 2004, he has devoted countless hours to ensuring the wellbeing of others on and around the beach. A former surf guard from his younger years in Christchurch, Frank renewed his passion through the local club, serving as a volunteer lifeguard, long-time committee member and valued Junior Surf leader.

For the past 10 years, Frank has led the Saturday afternoon programme for 7–9-year-olds, helping more than 250 children gain water confidence and safety skills in a fun and supportive environment. His ability to connect with young people and inspire respect for the ocean has made him a much-loved mentor. He also competed at Masters level, setting an example of teamwork and lifelong fitness for younger lifeguards.

Frank’s community spirit reaches well beyond the surf club. He has served over a decade with the Waitārere Beach Progressive and Ratepayers Association, helping organise events, fundraising for village improvements, and leading beautification and safety projects. A trusted member of the Waitārere Volunteer Beach Wardens, Frank helps uphold Council bylaws with his trademark calmness and good humour, ensuring the beach remains a safe, welcoming place for all.

Recently appointed as a Justice of the Peace, Frank continues to serve his community in many ways. Known also for his sense of fun, especially his legendary Halloween pranks, he embodies the balance of hard work, laughter and dedication that defines true community service.

For his outstanding contribution to the safety, vitality and wellbeing of the Waitārere Beach community, we award Frank Taylor with a Certificate of Recognition.

Jack Gibson

For over two decades, Jack has been a cornerstone of compassion and service within the Levin community through his tireless work with the Levin Uniting Church and Community Centre. Every Sunday for the past 20 years, Jack has dedicated himself to ensuring that those in need are welcomed, nourished and supported with dignity and warmth.

For at least 15 of those years, Jack has served as the coordinator of the weekly community meal programme, a role that has seen him planning menus, purchasing ingredients, preparing food, and often stepping in as head chef. His commitment extends far beyond the kitchen. Jack’s focus has always been on people – fostering genuine connection and care among those who attend. Many of the regular guests have found not only a meal but also friendship and guidance through Jack’s quiet leadership and steady presence.

Jack’s influence has helped transform lives. Some of the current volunteers first came to the meals in search of help themselves; through Jack’s encouragement and example, they discovered a renewed sense of purpose and belonging by serving others. His willingness to offer Christian counselling and personal support has made a lasting impact on many who have passed through the church doors.

Behind Jack’s decades of service stands his wife, Prue, whose steadfast support and partnership have made his continued commitment possible. Her quiet encouragement and shared compassion have been an integral part of this work and are deeply appreciated by all who know them both.

Despite the countless hours he devotes each week, Jack seeks no recognition for his efforts. He serves humbly with genuine care for the wellbeing of others. His long-standing service exemplifies the spirit of community – generosity, empathy and respect for all.

For his unwavering dedication and selfless contribution to improving the lives of others, we recognise Jack with a Certificate of Recognition for Services to the Community.

Robert (Ropata) Remihana

For nearly four decades, Robert (Ropata) Remihana has served the Horowhenua community with unwavering dedication and aroha. A long-time resident of Foxton Beach, Ropata has devoted his life to the service of others, giving freely of his time, experience and compassion to strengthen his community and uphold the values of manaakitanga and whanaungatanga.

Ropata’s commitment to service as a Māori Warden began in 1989 as a trainee, with his first warrant received at Paranui Marae in June 1991. Since then, he has demonstrated steadfast dedication through his involvement with both the Taitoko Māori Wardens Sub Association and the Moutoa Māori Wardens, where he has served in leadership roles including ten years as Chairperson.

His service has extended across Aotearoa, with deployments to the 2011 Canterbury Earthquake response, 2011 Rugby World Cup, 2019–2021 COVID-19 response at testing and vaccination sites across Horowhenua, and the 2023/24 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where he provided trusted service and representation.

Beyond operational work, Ropata has given back as a mentor and trainer, guiding cadets and trainees between 2008–2014. His mentorship has ensured the continuation of Māori Warden values of aroha, manaaki and whanaungatanga into the next generation.

A respected kaumātua and community leader, Ropata has also supported tamariki and rangatahi through school activities, sport, victim support and youth justice work – offering guidance and hope to many.

Now in his 80th year and reappointed by Minister Potaka for the 2024–2027 warrant period, Ropata continues to serve as an active, warranted Māori Warden. His attested 36 years of voluntary service stand as a testament to his enduring loyalty and sacrifice to his people.

For his outstanding leadership, lifelong service and tireless commitment to the people of Horowhenua, we present Ropata with a Certificate of Recognition for Service to the Community.