Purpose 

To celebrate and acknowledge the outstanding contributions of Regional Associations and clubs that are strengthening volleyball through community connection, innovation, growth, and system leadership. These awards recognise collective impact, strategic thinking, and dedication to sustainable, values-based development.  

VNZ Acting Managing Director Debbie Hyland says the awards are about more than just winning: 

“These awards acknowledge the heart of our volleyball community – those who bring people together, lead with integrity, and make volleyball accessible and welcoming for everyone. We want to celebrate stories of courage, creativity, and connection”

The use of “toa” throughout our awards is to demonstrate and show respect of those being brave, bold, victorious, experienced, accomplished, adept, competent, skilful and capable.  

He Hapori Toa - Community Award 

Description

This award recognises a Regional Association or club that has meaningfully connected with its community and demonstrated strong, sustainable growth. The recipient will have actively responded to local needs, fostered inclusive participation, and strengthened their organisation through strategic partnerships and long-term planning. 

Nomination Criteria

• Developed or deepened relationships with schools, iwi/hapū, community organisations, or local government. 

• Designed and delivered programmes or events that are inclusive, culturally responsive, and accessible. 

• Demonstrated growth in participation across diverse communities (e.g. Māori, Pasifika, ethnic groups, rural areas, age or gender demographics). 

• Implemented effective strategies to support financial, operational, or workforce sustainability. 

• Strengthened long-term partnerships that support delivery and align with Volleyball NZ strategic priorities. 

• Provided clear evidence of impact (e.g. participation data, positive feedback, sustained engagement).  

Toa Auaha - Innovation Award  

Description

Recognises a Regional Association or club that has introduced a new or improved initiative that addresses a challenge, improves delivery, or meets a unique community need.  

Nomination Criteria

• Developed a programme, event, or system that is new, refreshed, or significantly adapted.  

• Clearly articulated the challenge being addressed and how the solution responds.  

• Evidence of implementation success (participation uptake, feedback, outcomes).  

• Potential for scalability or use as a best-practice model for other regions.  

Toa Ruruku - Collaboration and Partnership Award  

Description

Acknowledges a Regional Association or club that has effectively collaborated with other organisations or regions to enhance outcomes for the volleyball community.  

Nomination Criteria

• Worked in partnership with other RAs, clubs, schools, or sport providers.  

• Demonstrated shared planning, resource-sharing, or co-delivery of initiatives.  

• Clear evidence of joint impact and strengthened relationships.  

• Promotes a culture of collective responsibility and system-wide thinking.  

Toa Tātaki - Leadership and Excellence Award  

Description

Recognises a person, club or regional association that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in governance, strategic alignment, and contribution to the national volleyball system.  

Nomination Criteria

• Consistent engagement in national kaupapa (e.g. He Ara Whakakotahi, policy development).  

• Demonstrates strong governance practices and alignment with the Incorporated Societies Act and Sport NZ frameworks.  

• Contributed to collective decision-making or resource sharing.  

• Leads with integrity, transparency, and in alignment with the VNZ values.