9th Filipino-Kiwi Hero Awards

Organised Exclusively by Filipino News: https://www.filipinonews.nz/
Mob:: 027 495 8477, filipinonews@xtra.co.nz
Manu Hoque
Hero of the Year
Noriel Jay Perocho Aquino Jr
Kwentuhang Filipino (Radio Station)
Chairmaine Bastian
Creative Arts
Jennifer & Alexander Domingo
Creative Arts
Leonel Vidallon
Sports Star (Marathon Runner)
Francis Albiento
Filipino Music Awards
Refaroza Band
Filipino Music Awards
Zhanella Langit
Film maker of the Year 2026

The 2026 line-up of heroes ...

One of the most prestigious recognition programs for Filipinos in New Zealand since 2014. Over 150 heroes honoured to date.
  • Hero of the Year - Manu Hoque, Basketball Coach
  • Music Awards - Francis Albiento, Dann James, Emil Bascones & Refaroza Band
  • Community Radio Host - Noriel 'Jay' Perocho Aquino
  • Influencer of the Year - Win Wolf
  • Cultural Group - Philippine Impulse Dancers
  • Pinoy Chef of the Year - Carlo Buenaventura, Bar Magda
  • Sports Star - Leonel Vidallon (Marathon Runner)
  • Film maker Extraordinaire - Zhanella Langit
  • Creative Arts - Charmaine Bastian, Jennifer & Alexander Domingo
  • Enterprise Award - Elmer Castillo

How to Participate

Nominate a Hero and join us for the Grand Awards Ceremony on 6 June 2026 at the Auckland Showgrounds. Free Entry from 10am-5pm. https://www.fiestapilipinas.nz/
Step 1
Submit Nominations
Send profile of exceptional individuals to: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz; 027 495 8477
Step 2
Winners Announced - 1 June 2026
Access the profile of winners at: https://www.filipinonews.nz
Step 3
Event Date: 6 June 2026
Attend a memorable evening of celebration at the Auckland Showgrounds 10am-5pm
Step 4
Free Entry - Invite Friends!
Onsite parking at a nominal cost. https://www.fiestapilipinas.nz/
Step 5
Sponsorship Enquiries
Sponsorship Enquiries to Mel Fernandez, o27 495 8477; filipinonews@xtra.co.nz

Feedback

“The Hero Awards, initiated by Filipino News, exemplify how we can cultivate a culture of value and recognition. Through active participation, we raise awareness, share meaningful stories, and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Filipino heroes.” - Mimi Rojo Laurilla (Media Personality)
  • We are deeply grateful and humbled to receive the prestigious Cultural Group of the Year Award 2025.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Ritmo Pilipino
    Pinoys love what they do and love their hosts and fellow migrants, manifesting it in their daily deeds.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Noel Bautista
    '“Hard work opens doors, but passion brings you closer to your dreams.”'. Motto of Nurse of the Year 2021
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Kristine Dianne Balatbat
  • Congratulations in advance to all the inspiring individuals and organizations to be recognized this year! Heartfelt stories of courage and kindness.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Carmela Laylo, 2024 Awardee
    Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your time, encouragement, and belief in my journey.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Charmaine Bastian, Creative Awards 2026
    Incredibly inspiring! I left feeling hopeful and motivated.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Ramon J

NZ’s Leading Multicultural Festival Network

Upcoming Events

We are proud organisers of some of the most viral festivals across Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch. Asia Festival: https://asiafestival.co.nz/
To participate, please call 027 495 8477 or email filipinonews@xtra.co.nz
6 JUN 2026 - Auckland
Independence Day Event
10am-6pm, Akld Showgrounds. Free Entry. https://www.fiestapilipinas.nz
15 AUG 2026 - Hamilton
UBE Festival
10am-5pm, Claudelands Event Centre, Free Entry https://www.halohalo.co.nz
15 AUG 2026 - Hamilton
Southeast Asia Festival
10am-5pm, Claudelands Event Centre, Free Entryhttps://www.seasia.co.nz
10 & 11 OCT 2026 - Auckland
Auckland Asia Festival
Incorporating the Matcha Festival, Korea Market & Biriyani Festival https://www.asiafestival.co.nz
21 NOV 2026 - Auckland
BBQ Festival
Also in Hamilton. https://bbqfestival.co.nz/
5 DEC 2026 - Wellington
Halo Halo Festival
Also in Auckland, Hamilton, Christchurch https://www.halohalo.co.nz
Contact us Today!
Venue:
Auckland Showgrounds, 217 Greenlane West Epsom, Auckland, New Zealand, 1003 Auckland
Showtime:
6 June 2026, 10am - 6pm Free Entry
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