Grabbies 08 winners

Congratulations, the following nominations are our lucky winners and will recieve 2 return domestic airfares. Individual winners will be contacted before Friday 24 Oct 08.

- Vote for Shanell and Jason
- VOTE FOR MY LOVE MAX DE BRETT
- Peter Jespersen
- LYNDA LYNN
- Vote for Shani Mclean
- My hard-working parents - Peter and Diane
- Gillian Biddle The BEST Mum & Nanny ever!
- Vote for my Nani
- Rob Cleary
- Nominating Angela Cudd
- Vote for my Nan (Mary Jensen)
- Eri Suzuki
- Vote for "Josef Rangi Thomas's Nanny Hiha"
- My big sister Melinda Haffenden
- My BEAUTIFUL and INCREDIBLY TALENTED nominee is Ni...
- my Mother, Helen Cudd.
- PETER SAMUEL CONWAY
- Vote for Pip
- Chau lu
- LINDA MORRISON our SUPERmum
- Vote for the SWEETEST boyfriend in the whole world...
- A deserving Mum - Dot Windelburn
- My inspiring sister Marie Lu
- My girlfriend Jean Butcher
- Vivienne Edwards
- Cody Bunea
- Stacey's Dad
- The lovely Kirstin Harray
- My amazing mum Hannelie
- Vote for super mum - Karlene Radovanovich
- My LOYAL Friend, Paul Crawford
- Vote for my grandparents Rose and Dennis
- Nomination for Lindy Cavanagh-Monaghan
- vote for my family
- Vote for Michael and Frances
- Vote for Colleen
- Vicky Culling
- Bridget Broughton
- Ann Robson
- Lance Woods
- Lissa is an inspiration
- Nominate Tony Coleman
- Denise Janssen
- Ashley Boorer
- vote for Sarah Calnon
- Debbie Grant
- Craig Sweet
- Exams before Jaw Surgery - worthy of a vote?
- Vote for Jenny Hemmings
- My mother Ruth
- Loving husband Craig
- Leann Millar
- Vote for Theo
- Our Nana – Robyn Elder
- My Super-Mum on Wheels
- Matthew Barnett
- Vote for Tim Holden
- A Real Badger in a Burrow
- Paul and Lianne Hall
- Scoutmaster Steve
- Emma Kirkland
- Jill Bonny
- Our Mum - Carolyn Hayes
- My dad
- Nominating Fraser
- Laughton King for Dyslexic Kids
- Nominating Meg Liptrot
- SGP (MY WIFE) - Sheree
- Akira Le Fevre
- Tyla Tevaga
- Mum
- Warwick Moffat
- Bradd Morris
- Vote for Jackie from Whitby
- RUTH NELSON
- Nominating Greg Fleming
- Nominating CC
- My brother Simon Barnett
- Vote for Jamie Cornelissen
- Love you Mum and Dad
- Amelia Evans
- Collette Fergus
- Vote for Martin and his beautiful girls
- my mum Susan
- My sister Sue Stow
- I nominate my friend Cameron Sollitt
- Vote For Ngaire!
- Rachel MacKinnon
- a STRONG and RESILIENT young woman
- Mum Sue
- Angela Shuttleworth of Invercargill
- MY MUM LESLEY
- Geneva Pedersen
- My daughter JENNA
- I would like to Nominate my Uncle Gafa.
- Aimee O'Rourke
- Vote for my husband Nick Jennings
- I would like to nominate my sister Margaret.
- Emma Wilson
- Rangimarie
- Drift Motorsport
- I would like to nominate my Dad, David Neeson!
- Saad Zahid
- My wonderful daughter Tessa
- Vote Marion & Peter Grey Every Day!!!
- Vote for Bruce
- Cynthia AKA Nana C
- Vote for Hardworking Hilarie
- Denise Fleming
- Nominating Joe Waru Slade
- Vote for Robyn from Hokitika
- Vote for Gwenny Davis
- I nominate Helen Quinn
- Scott Kelso Dad of the year!
- Ross and Averil Mawsdley
- Vote for Qari Idris
- Peter Forbes
- My little sister
- Cameron Leslie-Paralympics Gold Medalist‏
- My Inspirational MUM Kathy Hopgood
- Vote for Sue Riehle, Waipapa
- Hurricane Suzie
- My COOL AS parents Peter and Danielle Gordon
- Jono Orpin
- Lewis Christie
- Rosie Boom
- Jane Key
- Rose Humble
- Steve
- Jeffrey Graham Moore
- Vote for Koro Tex!
- Vote for Constable Dave
- Laurie Ward
- EMMA JENKINS MY BRAVE DAUGHTER
- Lesley O'Hara
- Vote for MARG ALVE
- Nominating Kris
- I nominate Judy Sharplin
- My two children
- We love you mum
- Marc Barnett
- Nana H
- My wife delia
- Hey guys, I want to nominate my mum
- Vote for Ned
- Disneyland Extraordinaire
- My husband Peri
- My son Luke
- MY PARTNER PERCY
- My Mum - Sue Ransfield
- Lucy Davie-Martin
- My Father - Dean
- Pam and Barry
- Lou
- My cousin Kihana Joanne Wharakura
- Nominating Moira Briscoe
- Vote for Libby Beattie
- Theresa Goldsworthy
- Judy Bennett
- Suzanne Whatley
- Sammy Bronnimann, the greatest little brother
- Mark Howard
- Shelley Cameron
- My husband John
- Gordon Dry
- Rome and Grace Davis
- Throw your support behind Michele!
- Toni asks for your vote
- Sensitive man - Marius Pikaahu
- David Lu
- Heather Manners - Bird Lover
- Kerrie Lawrence
- To Build A Stronger Community.
- Helen Clark * (donated to another Inspirational Kiwi)
- My Mum Sharlene Gillespie is my nominee.
- FIONA IS MY HERO
- My Mother Veneeta
- nomination from Squirt
- my beautiful boy Jahvis
- Vote for Dna Wells
- Inspirational Ingrid!
- SUZIE – MY AMAZING DAUGHTER
- Joseph Byrne
- Jayden Jones (Age 10yrs)
- Lisa Farrell
- Vote for a phenomenal woman - my Mother Lepeka Vao...
- Drodrolangi Fraser
- Alex Tattle
- Nominee..Richard Ryan..my name..Richard Ryan
- my Older Brother Joel
- Michelle
- Duncan from Kawakawa
- Vote for Chrissy – Super Mum!
- Vote for Vivienne!
- ANN IS AN INSPERATION TO US ALL
- Vote for young James from Te Aroha
- Colin Fife
- My Dad Shayne
- Lisa Gear
- 1ST FLIGHT 4 OUR GRANDDAD…Earl Lear
- Paul and Lianne Hall
- Susann Fish
- My younger sister Karen Holmes
- Laughton King
- Mum
- I would like to nominate my son
- I want to nominate my daughter Trina
- Vote for Snjezana Lipovac!
- My Mother Mary
- Id like to nominate my Mum and Dad.
- My mom Amita
- I wish to nominate Tony Scragg.
- Rebekah's Nana
- Vote for Karen Houia!!!
- Doctor Stephanie
- I nominate my Nan
- Vote for our Angel Jeannie Manahi-Kopu
- Vote for Steve
- Josef Rangi Thomas.
- My Mum Karon Dawson
- Vicki Cullings Sands
- Dianne and Chris Gardner
- Ultimate Family
- Kenny Perkins
- Warren Willmot
- Vote for My Mum and Dad
- Papa Jerry
- my mother
- Trudy White, Positive Beam of Light
- my wife Denise
- Mavis Ruebe
- Vote for my Dad Trevor
- Nominating my friend Donna Bird
- Vote for an inspirational sister with cerebral pal...
- Nominating Wendy Steeds
- Nominating Robbie Ngatoa
- Christabel nominates mum Susan Watson
- Super Mum and Wife - Lisa Knapman-Smith
- Jennifer Long
- Eric and Mikki Wellington
- Uncle Bob and Aunty Wendy
- VOTE FOR JOE
- Oliver Rabl
- Nola
- Kane Johnson
- Vicky Green
- Colleen Mckenzie
- She doesn’t have long left on this earth.
- Tammy
- My Mum Diane!!! Luv you.

What are the grabbies?

As New Zealand’s only truly Kiwi airline, we want to show what makes us special by giving away 500 return $1 airfares to kiwis making a difference in our lives.

You can nominate or vote for those inspirational kiwis making a difference in your life and the lives of your friends and family. They may be people in your community, at work, at school, in your church or social group.

What's the prize?

The 250 inspirational kiwis who receive the most votes will earn $1 return airfares for themselves and a companion to travel within New Zealand. They can choose to travel to any of our 26 dometic destinations.

Nominations are closed

Nominations are now closed. Thank you for sending us your inspirational stories. Entries and votes will be validated and we will be contacting the lucky winners next week. Check back on the grabaseat site next week to see the list of winners.

My hubby Brendon!

Vote for my hubby Brendon
I would like to Nominate my hubby Brendon. Over the last 13 years he has been a top kiwi bloke, working extremely hard and even taking on 2 full time jobs. He has endured my depression, and even his own. He has supported our three kids, as well as 3 he already had. But while he was working hard we haven’t been able to make many memories. Our time has always been consumed by work and family. I truly feel that he deserves a well earned break. We can’t afford to get away now with the cost of living being what it is. I know he would appreciate winning – although it will be a surprise as he doesn’t know I have nominated him. We both quit smoking 18 months ago and he has never really celebrated that either as he has always been to busy working. He never takes any time out for himself, and this would be the break he deserves and needs. Go on NZ, give a man a break!

Dedicated Damon

Vote forDamon:
DamonI nominate my partner Damon as an inspirational person. He began a business 10years ago out of a caravan in his backyard. He then went on to take over his Mums house filling it with computers and people. Still today he is working just as hard. We have been unable to spend much time together for the past few months as he has been working so much. He will quite often get home at 3am and be back off to work at 9am. He does not get a break from it, during lunches (if he gets them) and weekends he is constantly having to work to manage to keep on top of things and keep his clients happy. Since he is self employed working a 80 hour week is the same pay as a 40. I would love to be able to get the chance to give him a well deserved holiday, but being on a student loan and supported by Damon the money is not there. His business is now a leading IT business which is winning many awards and finally giving him some trophies to be proud of and rewards for all of the time he has spent, but it is not the same as a few days away from it all.

Gillian Biddle The BEST Mum & Nanny ever!

Vote For Gillian
I'd like to nominate my mum Jill, she raised 3 kids single handedly after leaving her hometown & her whanau. Always did her best with what little she had. Always puts everyone else first even at her own expense. She is a selfless, strong, independant hine purotu (beautiful woman)

My partner Raviv

Vote for Raviv
I nominate my partner, Raviv, because he completed his graduate diploma this year, and he never thought he'd go to varsity at all! Go Raviv - you deserve a holiday!

Ronny

Ying Luen Wong and Murray Wong

Vote for Ying Luen and Murray
I would like to nominate my dear mum and brother. Ying Luen aged 72, hassuffered for more than most of her life with chronic Rhumaetoid Arthritisand is disabled from the deformities caused by this terrible disease. Shearrived in New Zealand from China aged 20, to meet my dad and marry himwithin a week. Dad was 27 years older and she was his mail order bride.They lived with poverty and moved from Dunedin to Oamaru then finally toChristchurch where they finally had their own market gardening. They had 8kids and had a happy marriage life bring up the children working very hardon the market garden with dad who was getting older. During this time, shealso looked after all of us, cooked amazing food with no recipes,entertained friends when she could, made the whole families clothing byknitting and sewing with patterns she made up herself.Sadly dad fell ill and mum spent 4 years nursing him, taking care of thefamily and running the household with the help of us older kids. My dadsadly passed away and left mum to take care of the market garden and us kidsaged from 7-20. She was only about 43 years of age, two years later she wasdiagnosed with Rhumaetoid Arthritis but kept the market gardening goinguntil she was very disabled. She has had numerous knee operations and hipoperations but is still pain and not in remission.Murray is the youngest, now aged 36 and is taking care mum all these yearsas we all got married and left home. Murray is still single as he doesn'thave a social life looking after mum and also works very hard in his day jobin IT and works on the market garden after work and in weekends.They both have had a tough life and really deserve a holiday.
Thanks
Janet Wong

Vote for my Great Aunty - Raine Smart

Vote for Raine
I nominate my Great Aunty Raine.She has come all the way to Auckland from Queenstown to see how big my Uncle and Aunty's baby is in her tummy. (She said our cousin is about as big as a banana).She came up to help my mum when I was both born, and we want her to come again to help when my cousin arrives. She always looks after people and makes them feel much better. And she is heaps of fun!!!!!Anna (age 9)

Saad Zahid

Vote for Saad
I nominate my uncle who has been great. He has not been around NZ much so this will be great chance for him to see this beautiful country.

Thanks.

Muawia

My Mum Karon Dawson

Vote for Karon
I want to nominate my mum, Karon Dawson.
Earlier this year my mum spent some time in hospital for pains she was having which turned out to be bowel cancer. She is currently having chemo, which has not been going well at all, lots of ups and downs with a stint in the hospital in between. She is very inspirational to myself and other family members making us open our eyes to how precious life is. I would love for my mum to win a grabbie to give her a break away so she can go and visit her only granddaughter who is one of the greatest joys in her life.

Tania

SUZIE – MY AMAZING DAUGHTER

Vote for Suzie
I would like to nominate my gorgeous daughter Suzie, mother to my four of my beautiful precious grandchildren. A true earth mother who copes with whatever life throws at her. Recently her beautiful baby boy was born with a kidney disease: this meant trips to Starship Hospital and stays at Ronald MacDonald House. Touched by the suffering of others there and the need for funds and goods for Ronald MacDonald House she returned home to New Plymouth and despite having a sick baby set about raising funds and collecting goods to help these organizations. Which she continues to do. Her school benefits tremendously from her support, as does the school committee, as she is an amazing fundraiser.
Nothing is too much trouble for Suzie, anyone ill or needs help she is there, making meals caring for kids providing a good listening ear. Need some decorating done Suzie is there. Having a natural flair with flowers she shows her love in sad times by making exquisite personal casket flowers. She is an awesome mother, great wife and truly lovely friend. She is supported 100% by her loving husband Shaun also a caring generous man. At the moment she has four kids at home with a vomiting and diarrhoea bug. THEY BOTH OH SO NEED TO HAVE A BREAK. !!!!!

Christine Pryme

My wonderful daughter Tessa

Vote for Tessa
I would like to nominate my daughter Tessa, she is studying at Otago and I would like her to be able to come home for Christmas, with student costs it is too expensive for her to fly home, she has 1 years of studies left, I really miss her and need her to be here with the family at such an important time of the year.

Jane Key

Vote for Jane
Please vote for my lovely wife Jane who has to put up with me!
To Jane Devo Key from Michael Key (her husband)

Scott Kelso Dad of the year!

Vote for Scott:
I would like to nominate my husband, Scott Kelso. He is such a loving husband, daddy and friend. He was amazing at the birth of our son Harrison9 months ago, and since then has proved himself as an awesome dad.Harry gets so excited whenever he sees his dad. As I write this I can hearour son cracking up like he's about to explode, laughing with his daddy.Scott takes a real hands-on role as a father, and has always been therechanging nappies, feeding, entertaining, bathing, getting up in the night,and just loving our son. He even has 1 1/2 days a week as a stay at homedad, while I'm at work - on top of working 5 long days a week.He cooks dinner most nights, and does the dishes too - even though I know hereally really hates doing dishes. He always makes sure the car is filled upwith petrol so I don't have to worry about it.He¹s also the National Director of a film and media trust, and volunteershis time to help others. In the September school holidays he took a week'sannual leave to help a group of teenagers make short films to tell theirlife stories.And on top of all this, he makes me feel like I'm the most special woman inthe world.He really deserves a bit of a break from his busy life, please vote for myhubby.

Jaime White

Vote for Jaime
I am nominating my neice Jaime White as she has supported me by email and phone through my surgery and chemotherapy for breast cancer, Jaime is 18yrs old but she has helped me out by messages etc on my bad day's.
I'm on my last lot of chemo now and as I live near Port Douglas Australia she has been saving her money to come and visit me on 30 november I'd just like to make her holiday a special one.

andrea dixon

Vote for Andrea
I want to nominate my partner andrea dixon ,because in the last 4 years ive been with her ,her father has passed away ,her good friend from the uk has passed away
she has had a stroke and she is only 30 years old ,she is currently in a court battle trying to fight for her and her sisers inheritance from the women who was never married to there father
and is trying to steal there inheritance. And the thing that makes her special is that she gets up every day with a smile for me and our 11 month old daughter . even though she
is going through all the things that have happened to her over the past years.she is great mother and the best thing thats happened to me . she is an inspiration to me our wee girl and our family..

I would like to nominate my sister Margaret.

She is 63 years old, lives in Gore, where she has spent her married life.
For about 20 years she has worked to support her husband, and children, and in recent years has worked in a Super Market Produce Department.
She doesn’t keep good health, and because of this has had to retire.
Margaret’s husband suffered Polio as a child, has a severe lung problem, which has made it impossible for him to work for many years.
They have always resisted Government benefits, and have tried to support themselves financially, This has meant doing without luxuries, and enduring hardships too.
Margaret is a sincerely religious person, who willingly helps others.
In recent years she has been fortunate to have Grand children, but again, she has given up a lot to support them with travelling to and from Invercargill, especially, to mind Babies when her daughter has been expecting, and had difficulty with five pregnancies.

I know that she has not been able to have a proper relaxing holiday for many years, (mainly because she has used up her holiday allowances to care for her baby Grand children in Invercargill) and because of personal ill health due to over work.
Should Margaret win this opportunity, I can promise to give her a wonderful holiday here in Tauranga in my home, and I know it would be a wonderful treat for her.
Her older brother Peter.

New Teacher Theresa

Please vote for our very deserving Daughter Theresa. She is a very talented young woman who lives and loves Art. She worked hard to support herself while she attained an degree in Art and then also when she did her teaching diploma. After taking any relieving teaching jobs she could get last year (no matter what subject), she took the very brave step of moving to south Auckland to teach Art in a bilingual school so that she can get registered. We have seen very little of her as we live in Nelson and every school holidays she makes the very long drive back to her home and partner in Wanganui. Theresa did not speak Maori and it has been a huge learning curve for her however the pleasure she gets from bring color to the lives of some under privileged children seems to inspire her. We are very proud of her and believe the children at her school are very lucky to have such a caring person in their lives.

my mum, Lis Petchell

I would like to nominate my mum, Lis Petchell

Mum has been in a very busy state lately, working in the family court she deals with all natures and types of people and takes on a lot of other peoples issues to help them get better. My special needs sister has just finished school, which is a big time for my parents who have had to find her new placements. This has been a very stressful and emotional procedure for my family, and I think mum and dad would both very much benefit from a weekend away. Just to let them know how much they mean to me and my sister. :)
I would like to nominate my dad in this same nomination as I feel they have both greatly inspired me, and especially with all the time they have put towards looking after my sister, and myself too and still being the most awesome parents in the world :)

Ken Milne, Balclutha

I would like to nominate Ken Milne for my inspirational kiwi.He's the type of guy that would give you his shirt off his back!
Unfortunately Kenny was diagnosed with terminal cancer 3 months ago & is undergoing treatment at this moment.
Kenny has been an inspirational man and coach to many young players in Balclutha, to which he has been involved with for several years.
In his playing years he played for South Canterbury in the NPC, and his team which he was captain of even managed to bring home the Ranfurly Shield!
He has also dedicated for many years supervising IHC kids at the local pool, and has even been known to take them for trips to his batch from time to time.
As I mentioned, Kenny has been diagnosed with cancer and for his treatment he has to travel to Dunedin daily to which his wife Leola takes him too.
Both Ken & Leola are two awesome people, and are always so generous to others.
It would be great if the two of them could head up North to visit their son and his family after Kenny's treatment ends.
Please vote for Kenny and reward a truly awesome kiwi!

mum and dad

Vote here
My nomination is for my mum and dad. Both my sister and I are so blessed to have them as our parents. They have given us their unconditional love and support and they have given my sister and I the strength we need to move forward in life. Recenty my sister was admitted to hospital due to a serious illness. My parents have been so supportive for example they took turns staying the night in hospital and they made sure that at least one of them was there to care for and comfort my sister. It has been about 1 month now and my sister is still in the recovery phase. Everyday she is getting a little stronger though and I honestly think it is due to my parent's devotion and love. My parent's are trying to make ends meet and are paying off their mortgage but due to their values and love they have chosen to take time off work and care for my sister. I can not thank them enough for everything they have done xoxo

This is for my dad Dave

Vote here
I'm sure just about every son or daughter would say that their father is the best in the world. But when I say it, I mean it from the bottom of my heart. My Dad can always make me smile (even though someitmes his jokes aren't funny!) And always make me feel better about himself. Recently due to a dry up of work in New Zealand, my dad has had to go and work in the mines in Western Australia two hours from Perth. I know that every day he hates it, I know how badly he just wants to come home. Every 28 days he comes home for a week and then goes back over. He is currently in his week in NZ here but two days ago I was in a rather serious motor accident where I was nearly killed. My dad stayed with me all through the night and form then to now he has been sorting everything out for me, giving up his only break he gets. I know how much he would like to go on a holiday away from all distractions of our unfinished home, so please vote!

Shirley Black

Vote for Shirley
I would like to Nominate My Mum, Shirley Black who has for the last 7 years of her life nursed my dad who was completely housebound unable to walk barely speak, but she nursed him 24 /7 for the Seven Years she did absolutely everything for him, without ever complaining however he passed away 17 Months ago still undiagnosed to actually what was wrong, since he has died she has now got a new granddaughter who lives in Melbourne, she does not have the funds (after spending all their retirement money on Medical Bills for my dad) to fund a trip to Melbourne to see her new Grandaughter who is now 6 Months Old. We would love to send her over to Visit.

Esther Borrell

Vote for Esther
I would like to nominate my amazing loving mother Esther Borrell…even though I am 30+ I still have a mother that I can look up to as an inspiration.As a young mother with 4 children she was in a very abusive relationship that was out of control violence wise but our dear mother never let us kids suffer as much as we could have…One day with 4 kids aged from 6-14 we left dad and went from a riches to rags all in pursuit of a better life for us kids…mum never let us think the world owed us or that our dreams were unachievable. Now we all have familys of our own and thanks to our mums strength and guidance our homes are always filled with love and happiness…Thankyou mum

sister and her family

Vote here
Would like to nominate my sister and her family to be able to come up to Auckland or for me and my family to be able to go down to Invercargill as we haven’t seen each other since the death of our parents nearly 5 yrs ago even though we keep intouch by phone every day it would be nice to be able to see one another again unfortunately both her and her hubby and me and my hubby are now all orphans as of last yr so it is important for us to stay close

Nominee:'My Mother Mary'

Vote for Mary
Sabina Chiquet

Brian Wilson

Vote for Brian
I have to nominate my father and best friend, Brian Wilson. During my childhood it was just my Dad and me, and he was battling Chronic Faitgue Syndrome - an illness doctors are only now beginning to recognise. He also suffered from depression and anxiety. But he is the strongest person I know, and is now coming through the other side of it. He was all things to me, even when I was a horrible hormonal teenager girl he didn't know what to do with! We talk constantly, but he hasn't been able to visit me in Wellington, and I miss him terribly. He is an amazing painter and sculpter, and would love the chance to see the galleries and outdoor art we pride ourselves on here in the Capital. Please help reuinite us! Vote for Dad!

my old man

Vote for my old man
I want to nominate my old man. He's been the man over the last couple of years, he runs his business day in and day out without stopping, and even in the weekends when he tries to relax he gets called out and can't plan anything. Also, my mum has had chronic depression for this time as well, and he's made sure to stay by her side by travelling to Greymouth, Nelson and Christchurch to support her. On average doing 500km a week in travel... It's been tough on our family watching this happen but he's been amazing. That's why I want to nominate him. And if I could, my Mum as well to keep him company (and in line haha).

Karine & her fiance Rowan

Vote for Karine
I would like to nominate my daughter Karine & her fiance Rowan. They have just got engaged and are busy organising their wedding. Karine is a real inspiration to me because of the way she can always see a positive side to everything, always has a word of encouragement for everyone, always thinks of other and has such a joy for life. I would love to see them win this price and be able to travel after they are married.I would encourage you to vote for them and help them on their way as they start out together. Judi (Mum)

Janet Ward

Vote for Janet
I would like to nominate a very special person not only in my life, but in the hundreds of lives this person touches with the goodness of her heart. Janet Ward use to just be a name to be. That was until I meet her. She has a way of supporting and comforting someone that just makes everything seem like it will be okay. She gives up her time to organize numerous events around the city for people she doesn't even know. My Oma (Grandmother) Passed away and for me, Janet has definitely filled that role as I know that she is always there for me to catch me when I fall. She lives an inspirational life however never ever asks for anything back. I know if she knew she was entered into this she would say there were more deserving people. I beg to differ; she is one of these amazing people in our community!

Maurice Benjes

Vote for Maurice
I would like to nominate my husband Maurice. He is now retired. He was a school teacher and has put an awful lot of time and dedication into his pupils and his job. He coached hockey teams for many years also the yachting team. He was very committed to an outdoor school Lodge and as a family we all put in time their over the 40 years it has been operating. Very often spending time as a family there during the holidays, working to improve the facilities to make life easier for the pupils and the teachers who worked there. The upkeep of the buildings was a credit to him, as well as the excellent programme he ran while running the Lodge. As well as achieving alot in his working life he has been a wonderful father to his four children. He has always been a loving an inspirational father teaching them to be loving honest caring sharing conscientious adults. They now have children of their own who are pleasures to their parents and Grandparents friends and teachers. He has also been a very loving supportive and caring husband to his wife of 42 years. A great neighbour who has been a friend and helped out wherever needed. He would probably have a small fit if he new I was writing this nomination but he won't know. He is a very deserving modest man who would love a flight away to visit friends or relations. Daphne

Morina

Vote for Morina
Darling Morina (I'll be there in a mo....) & Mother
I nominate my daughter and grand-daughter expected in November.
Daughter deserves this blessing and baby on the way. She deserves this because she is working to feed a family of 5.

Hurricane Suzie

Vote for Suzie
I want to take my fantastic wife Suzie away for a weekend. She definitely could use the break as "Hurricane Suzie" never stops. Not only does she take wonderful care of our family but she is never too busy to help anyone who asks.

She is a superb mother to our four kids (oldest 9, youngest 18 months), and is thoroughly involved in each of their lives and multiple activities, even though our youngest is in and out of hospital with kidney problems and chronic asthma.

As if that wasn't enough, she is the Chairman of the Home & School Committee, and is always at every school event, organising, helping and participating to the max.

Suzie cooks like a dream and many nights and weekends she can be found catering for friends parties, business functions, weddings and funerals. lets not forget that she also does the flowers for most of these events, and usually the room decor too!

She is a wonderful friend and is never too busy to listen, often with tissues and chocolate to help the recovery.

My lovely wife has a heart as big as the moon and would give you the last biscuit in the tin - and then bake you a dozen more.

She does everything for everyone, and I would love for her to have the opportunity to relax, and to give her something back to let know just how special she is.

Joseph Byrne

Vote for Joseph
I want to nominate my Dad, Joseph Byrne. He is the man behind the scenes who hardly gets a mention. A loving husband of 42 years, a father of five, a grandfather to 14 and an impending Great-grandfather of two. My dad has battled prostate cancer and through it all put his own worries behind him to support my mother through her open heart surgery - he's her rock. He's worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family, is an amazing support person to my mother (and often cops it from her - hehe) and an incredible inspiration to me. A humble man at heart who would move heaven on earth for his family, deserves and I know would love a $1 grabbie getaway after what he's been through recently. Go Dad.....I Love you with all my heart.

The Cushion of my fall

Vote for Anthony
My friend Anthony is the most Loyal person you could ever meet. He has been there for me through thick and thin. Recently he and his family had plans to go to Auckland for a 1 week holiday. A day before they were due to fly out I unfortunately had an accident and fell of the roof. I was unable to walk for a few weeks and was in serious pain. Because i come from a single parent family my mum had to work all day and was unable to look after me for the two weeks I had off, however despite his holiday plans he being the true friend he is gave up his holiday to help me and for that I am very thank full and I want to give him the Holiday he deserves. Money doesn't grow on trees and neither do friends. he gave up his holiday that was already paid for to help a friend in need. Hes a modest person but he is always putting others before himself. He is the true definition of a friend!

Judy Bennett

Vote for Judy
I would like to nominate my mum, Judy Bennett. Since the birth of my sonHarrison 9 months ago, she has been nothing but supportive. She gives myhusband and I space to be parents and supports our parenting style, and isalways up for babysitting at short notice. She looks after Harry 1 dayevery single week so I can work part time - and not only that, but I alwayscome home to clean laundry and a happy boy! This is on top of working longdays as a nurse. She is such a caring lady and always has a smile and anencouraging word for others. She is very selfless and I only hope that Ican be half the mum to Harry that she is to me. I'd love for her to win aflight to say thankyou for all that she does for us.

Jennifer Long

Vote for Jennifer
I would like to nominate my mum (Jennifer Long). She is a mother of 5 and does a great job home-schooling us all, and running around after us etc. like taking us to work in the afternoons, doing soccer trips for my little brother early Saturday mornings, and picking us up and dropping us off at friends. Or letting us have big groups of friends over to stay no questions asked. While doing all the housework too. She is like Supermum!! She is part of a church and is always offering a hand whenever needed there. She is very giving especially of her time and is always helping out whenever she can with everyone! It would be lovely to be able to give her a break because she does alot for us and others and it would be nice to do something in return. So please vote for Jenn :) thanx

Katie Davies

Vote for Katie
I would love to nominate Katie Davies for the special grabbies Katie does a lot of travel to help young woman know that they are special. All this is done at her own expense It would be great to make her day as she always brightens those she meets.

My Super-Mum on Wheels

Vote for Hinemoa
My Mum Hinemoa fell 14ft from a balcony when she was 5 months pregnant with my sister. To protect her baby she turned her body to land on her back. Instantly she became a paraplegic, forever losing the use of her legs. Imagine lying in a bed trying to cope with not walking again, a premature baby who was tiny enough to fit in the palm of your hand and knowing you will most likely be raising two children under the age of two on your own. This is what my Mum faced but being the amazing woman she is, she refused to pity herself and instead worked hard to be well enough to leave hospital to care for my Sister & I. Growing up, we had very little materially but never was there a lack of hugs, kisses & love from our Mum. She protected us, taught us goodness, honesty & hard work & never in 32 years have I ever heard my Mother complain about her lot in life. As a mother myself now, I am amazed how my Mum was able to raise two children from a wheelchair on her own. She is truly an inspiration.

Elaine from Gisborne

I would like to nominate Elaine from Gisborne, she has the kindest heart. I met Elaine when I went to Gisborne to study; Elaine had a room to rent and I moved in. Elaine had recently adopted a beautiful little girl Maia. Maia was 4months when I moved in. I soon discovered Elaine kept a busy schedule between having a baby to care for and cooking dinner for her elderly father while making sure myself and another student who was attending one of the local high schools were made to feel at home. Elaine also took to baby sitting her niece’s daughter a couple of mornings a week so her niece could get part time work. Elaine is always there when her family and friends need her and goes out of her way to help any one and everyone. Elaine has dreamt of having a holiday for a while now, but being a single mum has restricted her from achieving this. Please vote for Elaine and give her the best early xmas present.

My LOYAL Friend, Paul Crawford

Vote for Paul
My nomination is for my LOYAL Friend, Paul Crawford! My friend has been there for me through thick and thin. He was integrated into the family over eleven years ago and has never left (And we wouldn't want him to either!). Words cannot express how much he has done for my children especially and I am very grateful. My children especially want to give him a little holiday. Vote Paul :-D

Ryan Dreadon

Vote for Ryan
Ryan Dreadon

I would like to nominate myself

Vote for Rochelle
I would like to nominate myself, my husband is away training to be a Police officer for 19 weeks, he is now at week 12, I have not seen him in this time and would dearly love to be able to fly up and see my husband at least once in his time there, since we are from the lower South Island the air fares are not cheap unless you are able to get hold of one of the grab a seats (very hard), while my husband is away training, I am at home looking after our 2 sons, working full time, running the house and have no time to myself. I need a break. I would love to take both our sons up to Wellington so they can see their dad; this time away from their dad has also been very hard on them. Please vote for me so we can get our family together for some much needed time together. Thanks

Rob Cleary

Vote for Rob
For my dearest man, I would like to nominate my husband Rob Cleary, since Rob has been away from our family for more than 12 weeks due to him training as a Police Officer, (he still has 7 weeks to go) he will then be based 3 hours away from us, his family (myself and 2 sons), we would love to spent time with Rob by doing a trip around New Zealand just so I can get to know my gorgeous husband again. Unfortunately we can not afford to fly to Wellington to see him so 12 weeks is a long time without my loving man let alone 19 weeks. What gets me through the day is counting down the days until I get to see him again before he will be based away from us at Christmas time. I would really love this $1 grabbie!!! So please vote for my special man Rob. Thanks

Bob YU UDATSU

Vote for Bob
Bob YU UDATSU

A Real Badger in a Burrow

Vote for Brian
I would like to nominate "A Real Badger in a Burrow," Brian Mearns. I have been blessed enough to have this man in my world for the last three years.
After a marriage of twenty years came to an abrupt end, I did not consider the possibilties of having another partner. When I met Brian I found his genuine and honest nature very appealing. But I feel the best, is how he allows me to be myself and he honers all that I am. Being a whole person and being free is wonderful when you have someone beside you to hold your hand and love you as you are.
He lifts not just my spirits but all those around him and always has an ear to listen, the shoulder to cry on and cuppa to ponder over.
His flock of kids and their partners, grandchildren and extras that he has collected under his wings always relax at PA's on a Sunday night diner and the laughter and warmth is a reflection of the man that he is. Like the Badger from Wind and the Willows his larders are always full and the fire is warm and inviting.
This would be a great gift to one who makes those around him fly high - let Brian fly high and enjoy the freedom of those wings beneath him.

Vote for Diane Jordan

Vote for Diane
My mother Diane is the most amazing person- she has the patience of a saint and CONTINUALLY thinks of other people. She is always offering her abundance of skills and knowledge to others, especially her garden and culinary skills. There is never a problem too big or question too trivial for her.She is an amazing farmers wife, mother and grandmother. She gives her greatest gift- TIME. (She is so good at looking after people, my great great aunt is now 102!!) I'd like to see her have a weekend away so she could have some time to herself (perhaps to a beautiful garden city), because let's face it, she would never think of doing it for herself.Love you Mum xx

Jayden Jones (Age 10yrs)

Vote for Jayden
I would like to nominate my son Jayden Jones (Age 10yrs) When Jayden was supposed to be enjoying his first year at school he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. His whole world as he new it was turned upside down. He could no longer eat whatever he wanted and had to start having injections into his bottom twice a day and 5 - 6 finger pricks a day also. This graduated to approx 37 injections of insulin a week as he travelled on his journey of having diabetes for the rest of his life. From day 1 he never protested and took it all on board. Life has become a daily routine of finger pricking, injections, weighing his food, asking for permission before eating, and at time going along to other kids birthday parties and trying to put on a brave face when not allowed to eat good old fashioned party foods such as 100's & 1000's on bread, lollies, and all that goes with a kids party.
Jayden usually spends at least a few days stay at Starship hospital in the winter months when he gets sick with the flu and upsets his diabetes. Jayden is now 10 and would dearly love to go down to Wellington to visit Te Papa Museum, and a plane ride there would just be the icing on the cake so to speak. He would take his mum who every day travels on the diabetes ride with him.
Thank you for the opportunity to nominate him

I would like to nominate myself….

Vote for the Bestman
I would like to nominate myself…. J I have been asked to be best man for a very good mate of mine, Dean Dickson on Valentines Day 09 in Auckland…. BUT I live in Christchurch. We have been mates for nearly 20 years and have been through a lot of good times. I will need to travel up there for the wedding obviously (taking my along with me my family of 4) but also for the traditional stag do (not taking along my family of four!!) We aren’t too sure when this function will be taking place as it will all come down to when I can make it up. Although we have been told when it WILL NOT be taking place… and that is the night before…. which is very understandable. Having these $1 airfares would be greatly appreciated as it would assist me in the planning of this testosterone fueled traditional function for Dean and all our other mates in Auckland…. COME ON NEW ZEALAND… HOOK A BESTMAN UP!!!

Damian Fisher

Vote for Damian
I would like to nominate my husband Damian Fisher. He has been a great support to me while I have been studying and woking full time. During this period we have brought a house and been burgled twice. He is now also my personla chaffeur as the second car is taking a long nap until we can afford to get it fixed. He has taken all these events on thew nose and done more than his fair share around the house due to my hectic schedule. Then when I am stressed out he will sit with me and let me blab on to him about how I feel. He is also the father to two who live about an hour away who he sees as much as he is able. He really does deserve a holiday and it will be a long time til I can shout him one as a thank you for all he does for me.

Carolyn Hayes

Vote for Carolyn
Carolyn Hayes

I would like to vote for my parents-in-law

Vote for Dave and Gloria
I would like to vote for my parents-in-law. No this is not a joke. My parents split a few years ago, Dad now lives in Sri Lanka and Mum, well it's not like she has neglected me but we have our own lives to live. Dave and Gloria, my parents-in-law, are great. I am a quirky character and they've taken (or put up) with me, and it has been wonderful to feel part of a complete, together close knit family. Being naturally inclined to be a loner that I am, I feel that without their genuine interest in my life and well being, I would have lost faith in humanity, become a recluse and who know's what impact that would have had on my marriage! I call them for help on DIY, cooking, morals, anything. They have inspired me to spread happiness wherever I can and in turn enjoy the company of others. Thank you.