Frances Denz – New Zealander of the Year!

The New Zealander of the Year award was announced at the end of February. This annual award ceremony honours New Zealanders who have ‘through his or her achievements, made an outstanding contribution to the well being of the nation‘.

Frances Denz has received the Metlifecare Senior New Zealander of the Year Award for her contribution to business, education, women’s rights and fighting for social justice, as Frances’ impact on New Zealand is ‘undeniable’.

An outstanding example of Frances’ drive and determination took place in 1972 at that time there was no benefit available for women who were married but separated. Frances walked from Lyall Bay to Prime Minister Norman Kirk’s office (literally went into the Beehive) and demanded that he fix the situation. “After that, I think I became the first married woman to get a benefit.” (Stuff.co.nz)

A multi-talented lady Frances has continued to contribute significantly to the well being of new Zealanders in a multitude of ways and was awarded MNZM, (Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit) for services to business late last year.

Frances recently facilitated a one day ‘Organisational Capability Self-Assessment’ workshop for Depot Artspace resulting in some “unanticipated and significant outcomes of both visionary and strategic value” (- Linda Blincko, Creative Director of Depot Artspace).

A warm congratulations to you Frances for recognition well deserved.

Dr Lance O’Sullivan won the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year award for his outstanding contribution to health in Northland. You can see more about his work here..