The Wellys 2013 – Wellingtonian of the Year

The Wellingtonian of the Year Awards, more commonly known as “The Wellys” celebrates 25 years of recognising leading Wellingtonians in their chosen industries and fields.

The Dominion Post is proud of the awards, a celebration of everything good about our wonderful city. Over the years we have seen some amazing winners across all fields from film maker Peter Jackson to community worker Pam Whittington to the Flight of the Conchords to hotelier Chris Parkin.

Wellingtonian of the Year – Suzanne Snively

Sport – Steven Adams

In Association with Hawkins Construction

Steven is one of 17 siblings from the amazing “Adams Family” which also includes big sister Valerie. He is the first Kiwi selected in the first round of American NBA draft making him one of our highest paid international athletes at just 20 years.

(Received by Steven’s family on his behalf)

Science & Technology – Dr. Richard Furneaux

In Association with Hutt City Council

Richard is renowned globally for his contribution to carbohydrate chemistry, looking at the creation of potent drug candidates for cancer and severe inflammatory illnesses and much else besides.

Education – Liz Langham

In Association with Wellington City Council

Liz is passionate about community development and has many voluntary roles. She is Co-president of Tawa-Linden Playcentre, works with the Wellington Playcentre Association, leads the Tawa Mainly Music group and supports Mana Tiaki’s kapahaka roopu.

Environment – Phillip Waddington

In Association with Opus

Artist and conservationist Philip Waddington designed a humane stoat trap which he gifted to DOC. It is used nationwide to enable to recovery of the kiwi and birdlife of New Zealand.

Youth – Sebastian Hallum Clarke

In Association with Massey University

Sebastian is a 16-year-old innovator and app developer, whose software is used by businesses and individuals in over 100 countries. Sebastian recently won an award for his presentation arguing for increased computer programming education in primary schools.

Community Service – Suzanne Snively

In Association with Porirua City Council

Committed Wellingtonian Suzanne Snively’s community service has included charing Mary Potter Hospice’s widening provision of palliative care. Her ONZM was for work on breaking the cycle of family violence and preventing type 2 diabetes.

Arts – Jane Campion

In Association with The Wellington Company

Oscar-winning writer and director Jane Campion is one of our most dynamic film-makers. Her debut feature The Piano is in the “Top 100 Films of all Time.” Last year she made the Emmy nominated TV series Top of the Lake.

Government – Peter Hughes

In Association with Westpac

Peter has had a 30-year career in the New Zealand state sector. He is regarded as the consummate public servant and is now heading the Ministry of Education.

Business – Norah Barlow

In Association with Colliers International

Norah Barlow has been the Chief Executive of the recently NZX listed Summerset Group since 2001. Last year, Summerset was named the Best Retirement Village Operator in Australasia for the third year in a row.