Three awards for high achieving young Pacific Islanders to spur them into leadership roles, have been announced by Prime Minister John Key.
The Prime Minister's Pacific Youth Awards recognise and encourage leadership, creativity and inspiration.
Mr Key says a large part of the country's international competitiveness will depend on making the most of the skills and talents of the growing population of Pacific New Zealanders.
Mr Key says the University of Auckland will sponsor a Leadership award which recognises those who motivate the community, have led a project at school or church, and met significant challenges.
The Weta Workshop award is for someone demonstrating significant creativity either in the arts or to solve a community problem.
Mr Key says the award from software company Cogita Business Systems will go to someone who has made either an inspirational change in their own life, or others, plus overcome adversity.
