Four community champions recognised at Civic Honour Awards
Published on 30 October 2026
Four Palmerston North locals who have dedicated decades to supporting others and strengthening their communities have been recognised at the 2026 Civic Honour Awards.
Peter Lampp, Professor Jaspreet Singh, Tiana Lili Fauolo and Helen Talamaivao were celebrated last night at a ceremony held at Awapuni Function Centre.
The Civic Honour Awards are the city's highest recognition for voluntary service, celebrating people who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others.
Mayor Grant Smith says this year's recipients reflect the generosity and community spirit that make Palmy so special.
“These four individuals have made an extraordinary contribution to our city, whether it’s supporting young people, helping newcomers feel at home, celebrating our sporting heritage or bringing communities together.”
“What stands out is the time and energy they’ve given to others, over many years without seeking recognition.”
“Palmerston North is a better place because of people like Peter, Jaspreet, Tiana and Helen. It’s a privilege to recognise their contributions and say thank you on behalf of our city.”
Among this year's recipients are veteran sports journalist Peter Lampp, who continues to champion grassroots sport, and Professor Jaspreet Singh, who has spent nearly two decades helping newcomers settle into city life in Palmerston North.
They're joined by Tiana Lili Fauolo and Helen Talamaivao, whose dedication to Pasifika education and cultural identity has created opportunities for generations of young people across the region.
Celebrating a tradition of service
Since 1988, the Civic Honour Awards have recognised Palmerston North residents whose voluntary efforts have made a lasting contribution to the city.
Mayor Smith says the awards are also a reminder of the important role volunteers play in building a stronger community.
“Behind so many of the things we value about Palmerston North are people who generously give their time to help others.”
“Our recipients are wonderful examples of that spirit, and I hope their stories inspire others to get involved and make a difference in their own communities.”
Meet the 2026 Civic Honour Award recipients
Meet the four recipients and read about their contributions to Palmerston North.
Peter Lampp – Championing local sport and its stories
For more than 40 years, Peter Lampp has been one of the Manawatū's most respected sporting voices, sharing the stories of local sporting achievements.
Named provincial sports journalist of the year in 2022, Peter continues to champion grassroots sport in retirement. He still volunteers his time to report from rugby sidelines, believing local players and clubs deserve to have their stories told.
His commitment extends to Manawatū rugby and golf, Sport Manawatū, and the New Zealand Rugby Museum, with his research helping preserve the region's sporting heritage for future generations.
In 2024, Peter became the first journalist inducted as a Manawatū Legend of Sport. Affectionately known as “Lamppy”, his dedication to telling local sporting stories has helped generations of athletes and supporters feel proud of their region.
Professor Jaspreet Singh – Building connections
For nearly two decades, Professor Jaspreet Singh has been helping new arrivals and students make Palmy their home.
Alongside his internationally recognised research at Massey University, Jaspreet has volunteered countless hours helping people find accommodation, navigate local services and seek employment.
As founder of the Massey University Indian Association for Education, Employment and Culture, Jaspreet brings people together through cultural events and community initiatives.
His commitment to inclusion and cultural understanding has helped make Palmy a more welcoming and connected city.
Tiana Lili Fauolo – Creating opportunities for Pasifika learners
For more than two decades, Tiana Lili Fauolo has championed Pasifika education and community wellbeing.
A founding member of Pasifika Pride Educators in 1999, Tiana helped establish the city's first out-of-hours Pacific Homework Centre. She also co-founded Pasifika Fusion in 2005, which has grown into a major regional cultural and academic festival involving 18 secondary schools.
Her voluntary work has supported Pacific learners, mentored educators and strengthened connections between schools and communities.
She also leads the local Pacific PowerUp/Talanoa Ako learning support programme and serves on boards and advisory groups to create opportunities for young people.
A minister at the city's Congregational Christian Church of Samoa, Tiana's approach to community leadership reflects the Pacific value “O le ala o le pule o le Tautua” – the way to leadership is through service.
Helen Talamaivao – Supporting the next generation of Pasifika leaders
Affectionately known as “Aunty Helen”, Helen Talamaivao has been a driving force behind Pasifika education in Palmerston North.
As a coordinator of Pasifika Fusion since 2007, Helen has played a key role in growing the festival and creating opportunities for Pacific young people to celebrate their culture and develop leadership skills. She helped launch Pasifika Fusion Legacy in 2024, extending the festival's reach to primary and intermediate students.
As a registered ICU nurse and a member of the city's Congregational Church of Samoa and Pasifika Reference Group, Helen also contributes to health promotion, family support and community wellbeing.
Her dedication has helped strengthen connections across generations and ensure young Pasifika people have opportunities to thrive.