The nomination period for the Canterbury, Mid Canterbury and South Canterbury Sport and Recreation Awards has begun.

Athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers who have made significant contributions in sport and recreation may be nominated. The nomination period will remain open until 11:59pm on March 31.

“These awards shine a light on those who strengthen sport and recreation in Waitaha - from grassroots initiatives through to elite performance - and celebrate the region’s collective commitment to a vibrant, active community,” says Julyan Falloon, Sport Canterbury Chief Executive.

“The focus is on excellence, impact, inclusion and contribution across every level of sport and recreation in Canterbury.”

Sport Canterbury will announce the award finalists on April 14. The announcement of the award recipients, including Sporting Legends, will take place at the awards ceremony on May 8 (South Canterbury), May 9 (Mid Canterbury) and May 15 (Canterbury).

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Debut of new category

The Outstanding Contribution to Sport and Recreation Award will be presented at the Canterbury Awards for the first time this year.

This prize will be awarded to a sport and recreation event, innovation, club, group, programme, initiative, or administrator that has made a significant positive contribution to Canterbury through exceptional delivery, innovative practice, and a strong commitment to enriching the region’s sport and recreation landscape.

About the Canterbury Sport and Recreation Awards

The Canterbury Sport and Recreation Awards are an annual celebration hosted by Sport Canterbury, recognising the outstanding achievements and contributions across the sport and recreation community in Waitaha. The awards aim to uplift the people and organisations who help sport and recreation thrive in Canterbury, reflecting our vision of getting more people, more active, more often.

Sport Canterbury, along with its key sponsors, is proud to recognise and support the individuals and groups who play a crucial role in promoting excellence in sport and recreation across the region.

Further information about the awards, nomination criteria and the judging process can be found here.