Rotorua man Tiny Deane has been named a semi-finalist in the Kiwi Bank New Zealander of the Year Awards.

The semi-finalists for the awards were announced last Thursday in six different categories.

The annual awards are in their 12th year. They celebrate Kiwi from all walks of life; those who inspire, give hope and lead.

Homeless advocate and charity founder Tiny Deane has been nominated alongside Dr Siouxsie Wiles, Scotty Morrison and other community leaders.

Miriama Kamo, Te Koruru – patron of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards says it has been an extraordinary past year.

'One which has challenged us beyond what we thought possible. Despite that, New Zealanders across Aotearoa have stepped up to act as ‘pou,' as support and strength for whānau, for communities, for our country and beyond.

'It's an honour and a privilege to play a role in acknowledging the achievements of our semi-finalists. Ngā mihi nunui ki a koutou katoa.”

The Awards Office received a record number of nominations in 2020 to be rigorously evaluated by at least two rounds of independent and diverse judging panels.

A significant number of these nominations were for Dr Ashley Bloomfield, Director-General of Health, however when contacted, Dr Bloomfield's office responded to say although humbled, he wishes not to be considered for the Award given his primary role as a public servant.

Three finalists will be announced for the six awards on Monday, March 1.

Winners will be announced at the New Zealander of the Year Awards Gala Dinner in Auckland on Wednesday, March 31, 2021.

The Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year – Te Pou Whakarae o Aotearoa semi-finalist for 2021 are:

• Farid Ahmed (Christchurch)

• Tiny Deane (Rotorua)

• Chris Farrelly (Auckland)

• Masjid An-Nur Imam Gamal Fouda (Christchurch)

• Craig Hudson (Auckland)

• Scotty Morrison (Auckland)

• Ranjna Patel (Auckland)

• Dr Sean Simpson (Auckland)

• Melissa Vining (Southland)

• Dr Siouxsie Wiles (Auckland)