A woman described as a "great leader", and a "wonderful guide and mentor" has been nominated for a Kiwibank Local Heroes Award in the New Zealander of the Year Awards 2012.
Veronica Cournane, who has been the Happiness House chairwoman for the past seven years, was nominated by Queenstown's community support centre's staff, signifying how much her work is appreciated.
Her nominators - Nicki Smith, Chrisie Visser and Andrew Balona - described her as a "wonderful asset to our community".
"Our organisation is very lucky to have her as part of it."
Ms Cournane was also the Queenstown Community Mental Health team leader and provided help and support to other community organisations, including the X-It Youth Centre, Strengthening Families, PACT and Supporting Families.
Nominations for the 2012 New Zealander of the Year Awards close on October 14.
The awards aim to acknowledge and reward the outstanding work and contribution many ordinary New Zealanders are making across the country.
Last year's Mitre 10 Community of the Year was the Gibbston Community Association.
Awards national manager Emma McDonald said it was the "exact sort of nomination that epitomises true Kiwi spirit".
"We look forward to receiving more nominations from Otago and Southland."
Each category winner would receive $5000 towards their work and a custom-made trophy, with all nominees receiving a certificate of achievement in recognition of their contribution.
Nomination forms are available online at www.nzawards.org.nz or from Kiwibank, Countdown and Mitre 10 stores.
