Porirua organisations and community initiatives were among those recognised at the 2026 Gold Awards, which celebrate businesses, entrepreneurs and organisations across the Greater Wellington region.
The Porirua Careers Expo was named as a finalist in the Supporting Gold category, which recognises organisations providing services and infrastructure that support others.
The expo was described in the awards material as a major day for future pathways, connecting young people with education, training and employment opportunities.
Champions Initiative, which grew from the work of Billy and Kerri Graham and the boxing academy model in Naenae and Cannons Creek, won the Impact Gold award.
The category recognises organisations empowering others and creating wider community impact.
The awards material said the initiative began with the belief that every young person deserved someone in their corner.
Other finalists in the Impact Gold category included Arohanui Strings+, Big Brothers Big Sisters Wellington and Te Puna Whai Mātauranga.
The Supreme Award went to Mufftech, which also won Emerging Gold Products.
The Gold Awards were held at Wellington’s Embassy Theatre and recognised a wide range of organisations across creative industries, technology, sustainability, hospitality, innovation, exporting and community impact.
The Porirua recognition highlights the role local organisations are playing in supporting young people, education and community development across the region.