Epitomising the Whakatipu’s spirit

Spare a thought for the judges.

Mountain Scene can today exclusively reveal the finalists for the 2024 Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards, being announced at a gala dinner next month.

Organised by the Wakatipu Community Foundation (WCF), with support from Queenstown’s council and major sponsor Gibbston Valley, the biennial awards were first held in 2019, to recognise altruists, philanthropists, volunteers and community heroes who make a positive difference to life in Queenstown.

WCF chief executive, Jennifer Belmont, says over 100 nominations were made this year, and the 36 finalists, yet to accept their nominations, across the 12 categories truly embody the theme of this year’s event — ‘Dream Big’.

"Each finalist represents the spirit of the Whakatipu community and its boundless potential."

Belmont says they’re particularly excited to present the ‘Heart of the Whakatipu Award’ — previously known as the Lifetime Achievement Award — honouring those who’ve demonstrated extraordinary leadership and long-standing contributions to our community, which will be announced by Queenstown mayor Glyn Lewers on the night.

Additionally, there’ll be a People’s Choice Award, sponsored by Scene, enabling the community to have their say by voting for their favourite finalist — see next week’s Scene for details on that.

The Spirit of the Wakatipu Awards gala, including a glass of bubbles on arrival, a three-course dinner, entertainment and dancing, is being held at the Queenstown Events Centre on October 19 — capacity is 600.

Corporate tickets cost $175 per person, or $1750 for a table of 10; community tickets cost $110 per person, or $1000 for 10 — finalists receive a sponsored ticket.

Tickets are available via wakatipucommunityfoundation.org.nz