Māori community stalwart and renowned sportsperson up for APW awards

Selfless commitment to the Māori community and a lifelong dedication to cricket and football will be recognised next Wednesday 5 November by the Wellington City Council when Bill Rawiri and Trevor Rigby are given Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian Awards.

APW awards are a way for the Council to honour members of the community who have made outstanding or lengthy contributions to the Capital and its people.

Bill Rawiri is joint chairman of Ngā Hau e Whā o Paparārangi Marae, which he has guided through many changes and developments over the years, including coordinating the restoration of the surrounding native flora and fauna.

During the Christchurch Earthquakes, Bill and his marae whānau welcomed 42 people from all walks of life and different ethnicities to stay at the Marae. These evacuees arrived without food, clothing or supplies and were provided with these essentials as well as invaluable emotional support and compassion.

Bill also played an invaluable role in Neighbours Day 2014, building the college kapa haka movement up in the northern part of the city, and promoting his own successful business, Māori Arts and Crafts.

“Bill is an outstanding, generous and compassionate Wellingtonian whom we are proud to recognise,” says Mayor Celia Wade-Brown.

Trevor Rigby is a legendary figure in football and cricket communities in Wellington. He was a sports commentator for National Radio and the ZB Network before he dedicated his time to youth sport, volunteering as a coach and mentor up until his health required he step back.

Trevor has mentored many young sportspeople, including Bruce Edgar and Ian Smith, but has influenced many more through his refereeing and coaching.

Mayor Wade-Brown says: “Wellingtonians like Trevor are critical to the infrastructure of our community. He has led by example and demonstrated the true value of passion, commitment and fair-mindedness.”

Unfortunately, due to his health, Trevor is unable to attend Wednesday’s Council meeting where the certificates will be awarded, so the APW will be accepted on his behalf by his sons, Mark and Paul.

The presentation of the awards will take place at the beginning of the full Council meeting, due to begin at 5.30pm, Wednesday 5 November at Council’s Committee Room 1, 101 Wakefield Street.

Photographs and copies of the citation are available on request.

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