Nominations are accepted from the general public and a judging panel selects finalists in each category.
The Legacy Award was inaugurated in 2024, and recognises an individual who has contributed to New Zealand over a sustained period of time and played a significant role in defining national identity.
Any member of the public can nominate an individual (aged 15 years or older), organisation or group for an award.
The finalists are invited to the New Zealander of the Year Awards Gala in Auckland and the winners are announced on the night.
[38] Local Hero Medal recipients are awarded throughout December each year.