Kea New Zealand is announcing its 2017 World Class New Zealand (WCNZ) award recipients, for the gala dinner in Auckland on June 22.
Wrightspeed founder, California-based Kiwi Ian Wright is among the award recipients; as well as chef Robert Oliver; choreographer Parris Goebel; scientist and entrepreneur Dr Privahini Bradoo; scientist Dr Phil Rolston; and businessman Sir Rob Fenwick.
The two biggest awards of the ceremony; The Supreme Award (won last year by Sir Ralph Norris), and Friend of New Zealand Award (won last year by Matteo De Nora), will be announced on the night.
Kea Global CEO Craig Donaldson says the 2017 Awards are a reflection of the rapid growth of Kiwi talent and ingenuity which continues to shine on the global stage.
“We’re delighted with the calibre of award winners for 2017,” says Donaldson.
“Each of our award recipients has achieved remarkable levels of global success, and made a massive contribution to New Zealand’s social, cultural and economic development.”
The awards are acknowledging Wright for his influence and contribution to the electric transportation industry.
Robert Oliver, chef, author and founder of Robert Oliver Enterprises, has been included due to his contribution to the culinary industry, through the promotion of Pacific culture, and his international humanitarian work.
Parris Goebel, a champion dancer and choreographer, is being recognised for her international success, coupled with her efforts to inspire Kiwi youth.
Dr Bradoo, co-founder and CEO of BlueOak, and a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader is being recognised for her leadership in the discovery of how to convert e-waste into a sustainable source of critical metals for the technologies of tomorrow.
Dr Phil Rolston, a Scientist in Herbage and Vegetable Seed Research, has been selected for his work in addressing the issue of world poverty, through his scientific discovery of a method for growing crops in arid areas.
Sir Rob Fenwick, currently Director of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, is being recognised for his extensive contribution in the fields of environmental sustainability and natural heritage.
Established in 2003, the Awards provide a platform that recognises global success, celebrating Kiwis who are helping define New Zealand’s reputation internationally.
Each World Class New Zealand Award winner will receive a Tall Poppy statuette, designed by Weta Workshop co-founder and 2009 Supreme Award winner Sir Richard Taylor.
The awards ceremony will be taking place at Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre, on Thursday, June 22.
