Renowned microbiologist Dr Siouxsie Wiles has been named 2021 New Zealander of the Year - Te Pou Whakarae o Aotearoa.

Siouxsie received the award from the Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern last night, she was also presented the Kiwibank kaitaka huaki cloak, Pouhine.

The microbiologist is a science ambassador for Tauranga based business House of Science.

Siouxsie heads up the Bioluminescent Superbugs Lab at the University of Auckland where she and her team make bacteria glow in the dark to understand how infectious microbes make people sick, and to find new antibiotics. She is passionate about demystifying science and has won numerous prizes for her efforts.

Te Koruru - Patron of the Awards Miriama Kamo, says the awards celebrate people who use their passion to make the country a better place, and Siouxsie undeniably fits the bill.

'While New Zealand collectively locked down, she stepped up - helping millions globally see past the fear and complexities of the pandemic. Her work provided support, strength and clarity across New Zealand and beyond, representing our country on a world stage and helping to keep us safe.

'Outside of the pandemic, she is a passionate and influential leader in her industry. Her willingness to break down barriers has opened doors for women in science, and her pioneering work in bioluminescence is redefining modern medicine."

The judges commended her for rising to the challenge when Covid-19 first hit New Zealand, she worked tirelessly to make the science of the pandemic clear and understandable.

In the face of considerable criticism- on her authority, on her appearance, on her gender, Siouxsie continued to respond to one of the greatest challenges of our time with empathy, innovation and courage, and her work has been seen by millions and even used by governments and organisations as part of their official pandemic communications, the judges say.

The 2021 finalists for the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year category include Farid Ahmed, Muslim community leader who has become an icon of forgiveness following the March 15 terror attacks, and founder and director of Tamaki Health and domestic violence prevention campaigner Ranjna Patel.

Five other Kiwis have been honoured with awards, Young New Zealander of the Year went to Voices of Hope co-founder and mental health advocate Jazz Thornton, Medical academic and author Dr Doug Wilson received Senior New Zealander of the Year.

Innovator of the Year went to Ranjna Patel the founder and director of Tamaki Health and environmental engineer and founder of Paniu River Care Shannon Te Huia won New Zealand Local Hero of the Year.

The Christchurch Mosque Victims Group has been recognised with the New Zealand Community of the Year award for supporting people and victims affected by the Christchurch Mosque attacks.