Community Initiative of the Year
This award recognises a partnership or initiative that delivers meaningful and enduring benefits to communities through genuine collaboration and a commitment to community outcomes.
Sponsored by
Beach Energy
It's time to talk Taranaki
finalist
Community Initiative of the Year
New Zealand Energy Excellence Awards 2019
It's Time to Talk Taranaki is a unique community wellbeing collaboration between Beach Energy and local Maori artist Paul Rangiwahia. Recognising growing community concerns regarding mental health and wellbeing, the initiative uses Mr Rangiwahia's artworks as the conversation starter, empowering members of the local community in discussions that include practical tips to effectively self-manage personal wellbeing. With an emphasis on community connectedness, the sessions are presented with humour and sensitivity, and with the partnership now reaching more than 3000 people at public talks, schools and charitable trusts, it is making a real difference in addressing this significant community issue.