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Westpac and their partner iSport Foundation NZ asked for nominations of teachers who have made a difference in kids' physical education.
Those nominations helped guide our selection of the 40 schools that would receive a box of sports balls each in this round of allocation.
Westpac and iSport will contact the schools and arrange delivery of their new equipment.
Nikki McCartin from Southbridge School – nominated by Rachel Rolton
I’d like to nominate Nikki McCartin from Southbridge School. Nikki is one of those teachers who truly brings the spark to every sports activity — whether it’s a class PE session, whole school athletics, cross country, zones or any other sports event. She encourages every tamariki, from the super confident to the shy beginners, making sure they all feel like they belong on the field. Her energy and positivity is contagious, and she consistently inspires the kids to give things a go, and most importantly, have fun while they’re at it.
Amelia Makalio Tuitahi, Matua Frances, Anna Tikoinamaka from Te Papapa School – nominated by Lisiate N Malaina Taufa
Our Te Papapa School G.O.A.T Whaea Amelia Makalio Tuitahi , Matua Frances , Whaea Anna Tikoinamaka , these amazing teachers really put their hearts into providing our school students with sports and , I couldn't just choose 1 as they all share so much dedication and inspiration, here's an accrostic poem-S- Supportive both in Te Papapa school and Te Papapa Rugby club , building connections in our school and community.P-passionate teachers going above and beyond for our students , ensuring they have the best sports and outdoor education experiences.O- opportunity for our students to thrive in a variety of sports exposing them to more innovative sports ie Ki o rahi , hunger ball, pickle ball ectR-Removes barriers that stop child from playing sport being active.T- teamwork makes the dream work - encourage mahi tahi working together and taking pride .S-Super proud to see kids enjoy getting active , gaining confidence and becoming future leaders. Lessgo
Tess Watts from Thames High School – nominated by Kelly Carter
I would love to nominate Tess Watts for this award in recognition of her incredible dedication to sport at Thames High School Events and CelebrationsTess gives her absolute all — 24/7 — to ensure every student has the chance to participate, succeed, and feel supported.She organises, encourages, and inspires with a level of passion that lifts our entire sports programme, which for a small high school is vast! Tess is the first to step up, the last to finish, and the one who makes sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Her connection with students, her energy, and her unwavering commitment is truely inspiring. Tess genuinely goes above and beyond, and her hard work deserves to be recognised. Winning new sports balls would directly support the incredible effort she puts into our school every single day.
Carl Maskell from Mount Roskill Intermediate – nominated by Ange Seluini
I would like to nominate Carl Maskell, Deputy Principal and Sports Co-ordinator at Mount Roskill Intermediate, for his outstanding dedication and positive impact on our school community. Carl consistently supports every student, uplifting and encouraging them to be their best. His warm, approachable nature allows students to feel comfortable, safe, and truly valued. As an exceptional teacher and leader, Carl creates an environment where students grow not only academically but also personally. His passion for physical education is especially inspiring, he motivates students to stay active, build confidence, and develop a genuine love for sport. Carl is a role model, a mentor, and a trusted adult who makes a real difference in the lives of the students he works with. His kindness, leadership, and unwavering support make him incredibly deserving of recognition. He has been a huge impact in my daughter's sports journey since being at Mt Roskill Intermediate I truly hope he gets this Thank you Mr Carl Maskell for always doing the most for our children.
Katie Louise from Petone Central School – nominated by Natasha Warren
Have to nominate Katie Louise at Petone Central School! Katie is the most enthusiastic sports coordinator I’ve ever worked with. She spends most break times coaching students in all kinds of sports, organises exciting events and visits from sports professionals, and attends every sports event outside of school. She truly goes above and beyond to help students thrive and give them opportunities they wouldn’t usually have. Her dedication and energy make her an inspiration on and off the field!
Lana Williams from Gore Main School – nominated by Julie Bensemann
Mrs Lana Williams is the best organiser of sport at Gore Main School! She’s awesome at sports because she organises everything so smoothly. She puts up draws, and answers parent questions in no time at all. She plays fun, active games with her class that make everyone excited to join in. She even organises huge school events like athletics and cross country with absolutely zero stress, making it all look easy. Gore Main School is lucky to have such a dedicated and all-round amazing sports leader!
Exia Shelford from Te Kura o Papatewhai Ashbrook – nominated by Marcia Josephine Insley
Exia Shelford of Te Kura o Papatewhai Ashbrook, Opotiki. She’s an awesome teacher who is supportive, calming, caring & non-judgmental of those children with difficulties, who struggle. She encourages them, helps them & she is an awesome sportsperson who represented NZ Rugby back in the day. Then you have Bryan Ashby & Jamie & Nikola, who give their all to the children whether it’s swimming, playing their outdoor activities, art, etc; and they ensure no child is bullied, particularly when they see the need to correct others in this respect. They deserve to be one of the 40 schools. Thank you Please pick them & this little school in Opotiki so they receive these resources for the children
Shaun Ginders from Holy Cross School – nominated by Sleep Mode
Mr Shaun Ginders from Holy Cross School Papatoetoe. Mr Ginders takes care of the Rangimarie Intermediate girls at school mostly but also the rest of the students too. He is always encouraging the students to give things a go. He will enrol the students into any and all sport tournaments just for the students to give things a go. That school is definitely competitive to the point where the students are cornering him for extra trainings after school so they can give the other teams are good go. When we go to the games, it’s always exciting to watch and support the students. Mr Ginders will support his students at outside of school sporting events if he can. The students adore him. I am grateful for a teacher to let my daughter give everything a go.
Nathan Down from Waitaha School – nominated by Holly Kerr
I’d love to nominate Nathan Down from Waitaha School. Nathan is an incredible teacher in our specialist school. He uses sport and movement in such a creative, patient and confidence-building way — even students who usually find physical activity overwhelming feel safe, encouraged, and excited to join in, he even takes a group of kids powerlifting every week! Nathan celebrates every small win, adapts every activity to each child’s needs, he creates a space where our kids feel successful, included, and proud of themselves.
Tania Johnson from Weymouth Primary – Nominated by Louise Marie
Weymouth Primary - Tania Johnson is a sports organising queen! Always on the go, always giving our kids the most opportunity to experience and give things a go. I have no idea how she does it, fitting in all of the organisation of the sports comps outside of school, sports activities in school, and every other thing life throws at her. I know that she would appreciate the sports balls for our kids and our kids would LOVE them even more!
Jess Southee, Amanda Ball and Lisa Hamilton from Waiotira School – nominated by Michelle Bristowe
Waiotira School is a 28 student rural school in Northland. We don’t have the big fancy gyms and playgrounds like the city schools and we certainly don’t have the greatest of balls! But our teachers have heart and put in the mahi to ensure our country kids stay strong, fit, healthy and competitive on the sports field! Jess, Amanda and Lisa are coaches, cheerleaders and the kids biggest fans and because of this, our kids are good…real good! And every student plays a sport too. Imagine how good they could be with decent balls!
Carlyn Condon at Maungakaramea Primary School – nominated by Lisa Thomson
Carlyn Condon at Maungakaramea Primary School! Sports coordinator superstar. Making sure the kids get to all the zone and interschool sporting events and teacher to my year 6 son. She's an avid netballer in her own time and has passed her skills on to her class and according to my son "netball is easy"
Lila Tammy McMillan from Te Kohanga Primary School – nominated by Ashleigh Rose
Please may I nominate Lila Tammy McMillan she's a wonderful teacher at Te Kohanga Primary School , a small rural school with kids that just love to play outside and learn new things. Tammy's great at getting some of them out there to boxing on Fridays, runs events at school, and is always trying to find ways to get the kids outside! I personally love how she gets involved with the kids and tries things herself
Mr R from College Street Normal School – nominated by Kylie Joe
On the courts, on the fields, in the summer sun’s glow, Mr R is the teacher who helps every child grow. He cheers every player, knows each by name, Turns every game into joy, never seeking fame. A mentor, a guide, with endless energy, College Street School shines because of his synergy. He gives all his time, his passion to share, So here’s our shout-out, loud and true,Mr R inspires the best in all that we do! Clive Jeremy Robertson College Street Normal SchoolMy first child went here because of Mr R! And I am hoping my next 2 will get in, so they too can experience the awesome-ness of Mr R!
Josh, Kirst, Harry Hoddle, Kirstyn from Waipu Primary School – nominated by Mel Crocker
Josh Kirst Harry Hoddle Kirstyn Waipu Primary School one of the most encouraging and passionate sports leaders I have ever met! Every event run is done with precision and love and our tamariki are all made to feel safe and encouraged to try everything!
Mr Lane from Levin East School - nominated by Shonnie Haussmann-Bailey
Mr Lane at Levin East School goes above and beyond for every student in every sporting events and during lunchtimes and during the school time p.e. He supports and encourages every student no matter their skill levels and willingness. he’ll help them thrive and enjoy themselves in any games or physical activity. To be fair though , most of the teachers at Levin East go above and beyond in encouraging all the students in sporting events.
Monique Istead from Sommerville School – nominated by Emma Cooper
Shout out to Monique Istead from Sommerville School. Monique leads teachers and support staff to implement an inclusive Health and PE curriculum allowing all learners to access and benefit from learning experiences. She is constantly looking for opportunities and reflecting on how to continually improve practices across the school.
Sam Baxter from Pongaroa School – nominated by Caroline Withey
Sam Baxter Pongaroa School makes sports so much fun! She show the kids that playing and learning go together, and that teamwork and confidence matter just as much as winning. She always cheers the students on and make everyone want to join in and give it a go!
Mrs White from Inglewood Primary – nominated by Claire Suter
Definitely Mrs White at Inglewood Primary. She goes above and beyond. Organisation, communication, accessing resources - hours upon hours of dedication to provide opportunities. She’s just started another group to get the less sporty kiddos out and trying new sports so they get a taster without having to fully commit. It’s a great initiative!
Ali Talbot from St Joseph's Timaru – nominated by Katie Scannell
I'd love to nominate Ali Talbot from St Joseph's Timaru for the amazing job she does organising and leading sport at our school! She organises every event, coaches for teams, and makes sure every child gets a chance to try new sports, join in, and represent the school when they find something they’re great at. Our kids are active, included, and encouraged to give things a go. We’re so lucky to have Ali take on that massive responsibility!
Margaret Presland from Boulcott School – nominated by Karen Henry
Margaret Presland is an amazing sports coordinator at Boulcott School. She goes above and beyond for our tamariki, provides fabulous communication to whānau and staff and is so enthusiastic with everything she does. Nothing is ever too much bother!
Lisa Mcfarlane from Rotorua Lakes High School – nominated by Christina de Lore
Lisa Mcfarlane at Rotorua Lakes High School is the Sports co ordinator and I would like to nominate her. What makes her special is was summed up perfectly by our deputy head girl who just left. She supports all students in their sports and passions. It does not matter if it’s a minority code if it’s something they want to do she will support it. She is also not afraid to keep introducing new sports into our school and keeping it fresh and up to date. For example this year she had dozens of students playing pickleball and our gym was overflowing at lunchtimes when rollarskating was on.
Claire O'Hara from Opiki School – nominated by Patsy Dorland
Claire O'Hara at Opiki School!She is such an enthusiastic teacher when it comes to sport at Opiki School.I don't know where she finds the time but she does! Organises all winter sports teams (10 of them)Football Netball Soccer and BasketballInterschool Cross CountryAll School events Triathalon, Athletics, Cross CountryAIMS games, ki-o-rahi...the list goes on!!And then organizing Prizegivings, Certificates, Trophys, Transport, permission slips.. And Opiki School's biggest cheerleader.She is amazing and always smiling. Thank you Claire O'Hara, for all you mihi
Jill Simkin Dinniss from St Mary's Catholic School Rotorua – nominated by Rachael Rowe
OMG Jill Simkin Dinniss is this teacher!. So so many children past and present from St Mary's Catholic School Rotorua have been inspired by her to give a sport a go, encouraging them all the way, esp girls to give sports like Rugby and 7' s a go. She goes over and above her teaching responsibilities to organize trips to boxing classes, sports events and many many hours of fun on the school field. She encourages and supports, and gets kids involved in all they can, with press up challenges a highlight for some. She has coached many teams outside of school hours and has cross country, athletic, beach 5's etc all under control. For kids who need fresh air during the day to keep their brains working she is an amazing teacher who goes that extra mile and a well deserving recipient.
Mr Harding, Mr Mitchell, and Miss Shannon from Ohaupo Primary School – nominated by Claire Lincoln
We have a number of Staff who support PE with the students, to Mr Harding who organizes our Sports days ie Swimming, Athletics, to Mr Mitchell who sorts our out of school sports, Miss Shannon who helps sort Netball and our staff who daily take part in tennis games, running races, playing gaga ball and scootering with the kids at Ohaupo Primary School - the tamariki love how involved they all are
Janine Te Tomo from Koputaroa School – nominated by Kathy Mitchell
Koputaroa School - Janine Te Tomo if it wasn’t for her amazing organisation none of our students would be able to play the sports that are on offer. Being a small rural school, Mrs Te Tomo takes on the role of sports co-ordinator and goes above and beyond to encourage, include and arrange sports teams, notices, draws, uniforms and the list goes on…
Brad Hughes and Scott Dean from Wakaaranga Primary School – nominated by Erin Carpenter
Brad Hughes and Scott Dean are just two of the amazing teachers at Wakaaranga Primary School that make sports fun for all kids. They take time to show, explain, and care for the kids with such respect and empathy. Sports is made enjoyable and fun for all - regardless of ability or skill. They would be incredible recipients of this prize
Judith Smith from Paekakariki School – nominated by Eendre Davidson
Whaea Judith Smith works in the background with organising all sorts if activities for tamariki at Paekakariki School. We are a small kura and will welcome sports equipment. Whaea Judith got a group of tamariki involved in making a play trailer to keep sports equipment for lunch time play and sports. We have yet to fill it with equipment and filling it with equipment will enrich tamariki play time.
Cade Armstrong from Henley School – nominated by Kathy Ferguson
Cade Armstrong at Henley School Nelson is a bit of a sports fanatic! Today he was on classroom ‘release’ to teach ten classes and their teachers sports skills! For YEARS he has been organising Rippa tournaments, Interschool Events, Althletics Day, Swimming Sports Day, Cross Country, Tryathlons … you name it!!! His classroom is next to the school Sports Shed and he organises Year 6 children for Sports Shed Monitor duty. Those balls need maintenance. When it comes to Sport … Mr A is tops. Westpac… he could do with your support and the kids will LOVE your support also!!
Jake Ryan from Te Kura o Manunui – nominated by Gee Kurukaanga
Jake Ryan at Te Kura o Manunui has absolutely grown the sports at this kura over 3 years. They started small and now they have HEAPS of kids playing various sports. We are forever thankful to TKoM for the opportunities presented for my daughter way back.
Barbara O'Keeffe from Hāwera Primary School – nominated by Crystal Pikihuia Hockley
Whaea Barbara O'Keeffe is an amazing teacher who gives all her time and energy not only to her own massive class but also every student at Hāwera Primary School! Rochelle Standing is super teacher who also manages all of our school sports teams and events. Shevaun O'Brien is our amazing principal who just recently along with her supportive Whānau organised an amazing 150th Jubilee for our school. I could go on and on about all the wonderful teachers, environment and Whānau of Hawera primary school as 7 of my children have attended or currently attended HPS and I have 1 more to begin their learning journey at HPS in 18 months time. HPS have some amazing talent within the school with students representing in sports at regional and national level however HPS is a school where no matter what talent you have in a particular sport every student wants to give it a go and will always do their personal best! Our school also holds an annual Graeme West inter primary school rugby league tournament in honour of Graeme West and his attendance at HPS many years ago. I believe HPS could benefit from more sporting equipment as our equipment is due an overhaul and we can get more students outside with more options of sports.
Sheri Hughes and Ashleigh Potts from Tawhiti School – nominated by Shannon Marie Reid
Sheri Hughes and Ashleigh Potts at Tawhiti School are amazing with all the sports that our kids get to take part in. They are always coming up with great ideas/games and activities to make PE fun for everyone. They also organise so many sports for the tamariki to play and you will always see them out doing all these activities with the kids and even coaching teams! We would be so grateful for this!
Caty Spencer from Paraparaumu Beach School – nominated by Teresa Robertson
Caty Spencer at Paraparaumu Beach School is a huge inspiration to our kids. She gives up her time or organise hockey, coach touch rugby, organise interclass challenges and sort teams for interschool events. More than that she's a dedicated runner and has earned the respect of everyone around her. She helped organise over 80 kids from our school ro run in a local charity event with kids running 2, 5 or 10km. Caty has a dedicated team of students who are sports embassadors. She enables them to run our PE shed, support junior sport and run lunchtime events. Caty encourages everyone to give things a go and all with a smile on her face, endless energy and enthusiasm. She is absolutely brilliant.
Simon Small from Newbury School – nominated by Ruby Porter
Simon Small - the only teacher that can humbly show our intermediate aged tamariki at Newbury School how Athletics is properly done. Giving up lunchtimes to continue teaching correct form and giving up even more time to come and help our juniors! Thanks Simon, you’re the real MVP
Dean Crawford from Ao Tawhiti Unlimited Discovery – nominated by Gina Harrison
Dean Crawford teaches PE to year 1-13 at Ao Tawhiti Unlimited Discovery and is inspiring to all! I’ve worked with him a long time and the kids love him and he is able to motivate those who aren’t into sports into giving it a try. My 5 yr old is now being taught by him and just loves her PE lessons. He also runs an outdoor Ed class and gets groups of kids out on tramps all around the South Island. Our school is in the CBD so doesn’t have a sports field, we have a gym and Dean is amazing at using other spaces in the CBD such as the courtyard outside school, Hagley Park and even the small square of grass outside the bus interchange! At this time of year the gym is used for exams so he just adapts and finds a new space.
Jane Thorpe from Hukerenui School – nominated by Sarah Williamson
I’d love to nominate Miss Jane Thorpe who is our Sports Coordinator at Hukerenui School in Northland. She’s an absolute legend when it comes to sports and keeping our kids active. Not only does she run all the big events like athletics, cross country, and swimming sports, but she also gives up her lunch breaks to organise fun inter-house games — sometimes even kids vs staff (which everyone LOVES ).Her energy, enthusiasm, and passion for sport are contagious. She’s always the first to join in, cheer the kids on, and make sure everyone feels part of the action. Miss Thorpe inspires every student to get involved and give it their best — she truly makes sport something special at Hukerenui School!
Nick Machin from Westport North School – nominated by Johannes Mackay
Nick Machin also from Westport North, does a fantastic job not only organising all of our sports activites but also some of the district events.
Mrs Caughey from Blenheim School – nominated by Renee Beaumont
I nominate Mrs Caughey from Blenheim School she is amazing and always gets the children involved in sports. She makes sports fun! Win or lose she is always proud of the wee athletes. Gill teaches the children to do their best and get amongst it and give everything a go.Gill not only organises the school teams for all the different sports, she's also coaches, mentors and even offers transport if required for children to attend games. Nothing is a problem- A true credit to Blenheim School and all the future sport star students
Laura Green from Amisfield School – nominated by Marie Mason
Laura Green at Amisfield School in Tokoroa. She has been amazing in orchestrating all the team sports, athletics, cross country and swimming at school as well as being Staff rep for the BOT. All this on top of being a full time teacher to a full Class of year 6 kids. Took over leadership of the senior camp this year when the head teacher came down sick and nailed it.
Bridget Dryden and Fiona Bibby-Smith from Mapua School – nominated by Ashlee Johnson
Fiona and Bridget at Mapua School. New entrants teachers who go above and beyond to help kids starting school - always with balls available to kick around on arrival (eases drop offs!) and during play sessions - helping to keep our little ones fit and healthy. Our boy loves kicking the soccer ball/shooting the basketball in the breaks and early play sessions and he always asks for a ball on arriving. This activity is one key thing that has helped him meet new friends and settle into school life. The school would totally benefit from more balls for their wider school activities!