Pukerua Bay’s Ahu Charitable Trust has been named the Supreme Winner at the 2025 Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards for Porirua, celebrating its standout contribution to community connection and resilience.
The event, held Tuesday evening at Pātaka Art + Museum, honoured volunteers and organisations making a difference across Porirua. The awards, a collaboration between Wellington Airport and local councils, recognise the dedication of those who give their time to support others.
Established in 2017, Ahu Charitable Trust (Pukerua Bay Hub) was celebrated for its innovative work, including last winter’s ‘Pop-Up Parlour’ which transformed St Marks Church into a vibrant community hub. Over five weeks, the initiative hosted 48 events, drawing residents together to share skills, build connections and foster resilience.
Reuben Friend, Porirua City Council’s General Manager of Community & Partnerships, praised all the nominees.
General Manager of Community & Partnerships
“Everyone nominated demonstrates their love for Porirua and its people through their ongoing commitment,” Friend said. “They show innovation, effectiveness, perseverance, impact and activity within our communities.”
Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke echoed those sentiments.
“These groups deserve recognition for the amazing and selfless work they do in the community,” Clarke said. “Congratulations to all nominees and winners, and best of luck for the Regional Community Awards finals later this year.”
Category Winners – Porirua Region:
- Education and Child/Youth Development: 41 (City of Porirua) Squadron Air Training Corp (Runner-up: Holy Family Parish Youth Ministry)
- Health and Wellbeing: Foundation for Equity and Research NZ (Runner-up: Waitangirua Market)
- Arts and Culture: Ahu Charitable Trust (Pukerua Bay Hub) (Runner-up: Malaga Sā)
- Sport and Leisure: Plimmerton Boating Club (Runner-up: Porirua City Aquatics Learn to Swim programme)
- Heritage and Environment: Whitireia Park Restoration Group (Runner-up: Tū Matau Ora)
- Rising Star: Heavy Hitterz (Runner-up: O Le Nu’u Trust)
- Supreme Award: Ahu Charitable Trust (Pukerua Bay Hub)
