Community Association chairwoman Susan Stevens accepted the Mitre 10 Community of the Year Award on behalf of the community at a gala dinner in Auckland last week, during the 2011 New Zealander of the Year Awards.
The community won the award for its outstanding community development achievements.
Most recently, it opened the $1.4 million, 8.5km walkway along the banks of the Kawarau River.
Ms van Uden said the national recognition should be "viewed with pride by the entire district".
"An association of no more than 100 members spent six years bucking setbacks, challenges and frustrations to deliver its vision of an iconic walkway.
"This was an extraordinary effort resulting in an asset that can now be enjoyed by the entire country."
The walkway featured multiple bridges, picnic areas and breathtaking views and had been formed despite involving multiple landowners and challenging terrain.
"This project was literally delivered through blood sweat and tears. National recognition could not be more fitting," Ms van Uden said.
She also recognised the walkway was not the only achievement by the community, which now boasted a community reserve, complete with fruit trees and cricket oval, and an attractive rest area for visitors.
"As a district we have been inspired by the achievement of the Gibbston community.
"I am delighted that through this national acknowledge-ment, all of New Zealand has seen what can be achieved by small communities through sheer determination and commitment."
It was hoped people from across New Zealand would "make a note" to visit Gibbston and experience the walk for themselves.
