Palmerston North has named the recipients of its 2025 Civic Awards, the city’s highest honour for voluntary service. The awards recognise individuals who dedicate their time to support community groups and organisations, enriching the lives of residents across the city.
This year’s recipients are Manjit Chawla, Harvey Jones, Tim Mordaunt and Paul Roache, Paul O’Brien, Rhia Taonui, and Wiremu and Trieste Te Awe Awe. Since the awards were introduced in 1988, a total of 169 people have been recognised for their extraordinary contributions to the city.
"Receiving the Civic Honour Award is a deeply meaningful moment for me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community that has given my family so much," Manjit told The Indian Weekender.
"Palmerston North has embraced us with warmth, and serving this city has been a privilege,"he added.
Manjit Chawla has been honoured out for his extensive community work bridging cultural and religious boundaries.
Manjit, originally from Jalandhar, Punjab, moved to New Zealand in 2017. He has served as President of Gurudwara Fateh Sahib in Palmerston North for around ten years.
Serving as a Justice of the Peace since 2021, a Red Cross volunteer, and president of the Sikh Society for the past decade, Manjit has guided the Society’s growth to more than 1,000 members. He is leading the development of a new community centre planned for 2026 and oversees a Punjabi language school and music programmes for young people.
"This award belongs to everyone who has supported me along the way — my family, friends, our dedicated volunteers, and our strong Punjabi community," Manjit said.
"I remain committed to lifting our community, expanding opportunities, and creating meaningful pathways for our younger generation," he added.
He hopes this recognition inspires youth and encourages them to continue building community, preserving culture, and giving back.
A city motelier and financial advisor with a background in food and hospitality, Manjit now supervises a weekly community kitchen inspired by the Sikh tradition of Langar, providing over 12,000 free meals annually and promoting food security with dignity. His charitable initiatives also include sending hearing aids to India.
Manjit’s work fosters cultural preservation, youth engagement, and interfaith harmony, contributing significantly to Palmerston North’s social fabric.
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