Symone Hurley of Ashburton has been named a Tower Local Hero Medallist in the 2026 Tower New Zealand Local Hero of the Year Award. Hurley is a co-founder of Dear Effie Charitable Trust.
Florence (Flow) Waaka, founder of Feed a Bro in Christchurch, has also been named. She recently set up a free weekly meal for people ‘‘doing it tough’’ in Ashburton.
The pair were among 100 medal recipients named nationwide as making a positive difference in their communities.
Tower chief executive officer Paul Johnston said via a statement that it was an immense honour to be able to help shine a light on the people throughout New Zealand who are shaping a better future for all of us.
“To the 100 local hero medallists – congratulations, this recognition is a true reflection of the impact you’ve had on Aotearoa. On behalf of Team Tower, thank you, keep pushing New Zealand forward,” he said.
Each of these medallists, nominated by people in their communities, were described as a force for good in their community.
“With conviction, compassion, and courage, they drive real change – improving lives, strengthening connections, and inspiring others to do the same. Together, they show the best of Aotearoa in action.”
Hurley, along with her husband Shaun, co-founded Dear Effie after the sudden loss of their three-year-old daughter, Effie.
‘‘Ashburton mother Symone Hurley turned unimaginable grief into purpose,” the award citation says.
‘‘Finding little immediate support for her own family, she founded the Dear Effie Charitable Trust – Canterbury’s first and only child-focused bereavement trust – to ensure grieving children and their whānau receive fast, compassionate help when they need it most.
‘‘Through Dear Effie, Symone connects families with counsellors, psychologists, books, and community services, while creating a safe space where parents and children feel seen, supported, and less alone.
“In its first year, the Trust has already helped more than 25 families access vital care.
“Working tirelessly with her husband and two young sons, Symone has built a movement of empathy from the ground up – proving that even in the darkest moments, love can light the way for others.’’
The citation for Waaka says, “Flow Waaka (Te Arawa, Ngāi Tahu), affectionately known as ‘Flow Feeds’ is a force for kindness and connection in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
‘‘For over a decade, she has led Feed a Bro – a grassroots movement providing kai, care, and dignity to people experiencing homelessness and hardship. What began as one woman’s act of generosity after her own experiences with food insecurity has grown into a powerful community kaupapa, driven entirely by donations and the collective spirit of manaakitanga.
‘‘Every week, Flow sets up in central Christchurch, offering hot meals, kōrero, and kindness. Her mahi goes far beyond food: she restores trust, builds belonging, and reminds people they matter.
“Through her TikTok platform Flow Feeds, she mobilises others across Aotearoa to take action in their own communities. Flow’s selfless service embodies kotahitanga and hope – proving that one person, with heart, can transform a city.’’
Other Cantabrians to receive a medal were: Dr Philip Bagshaw, for his profound commitment to equitable healthcare has transformed lives, offering free medical services to those in need and tirelessly advocating for systemic reform in Aotearoa.
Gina Eccersall, who has led from the front in some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s toughest disaster responses.
Joshua Potter-Gardiner, a dedicated advocate for people experiencing homelessness in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Liz Hodge, who has dedicated her life enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities through her tireless service to Riding for the Disabled.
Sam Rasmussen, for his leadership at Taskforce Kiwi, which has profoundly impacted communities in crisis, embodying operational excellence and fostering a resilient, purpose-driven volunteer force dedicated to co-ordinated disaster response.
