This year Te Hononga ki ngā Tupuna nominated three enthusiastic, determined learners to receive awards at Awards Night at Aorere College on September 10: William Heta, John Jolliffe and Felicidad Ong. Felicidad received her award on the night but Wiremu and John (shown below) could not attend the ceremony so their awards were accepted on their behalf by koka Manu Collier and Traci Mangu from Te Hononga ki ngā Tupuna Trust.

Each one demonstrated a keenness to learn as a basis for improving their personal and professional lives, and encouraged and supported their fellow classmates.

• William Heta is a single father who has returned to the classroom not only for his own personal development but also as a step to becoming a positive role model for his children showing them that even though his educational background is very limited it is possible to return to school and succeed.
• Felicidad Ong has Filipino and Chinese heritage and firmly believes that all people immigrating to New Zealand should learn te reo Māori.
• John Jolliffe is a Marist priest fluent in the Samoan language. He decided that learning te reo would enhance his personal and professional life.