They give their time, energy and heart to make a difference in your community. Now, with one simple vote, you have the chance to help them do even more.

With $30,000 in grants to be awarded at Westfield Albany, your vote can help a local hero create an even greater impact. Meet your three Westfield Local Hero finalists and discover their stories behind the meaningful difference they're making in the lives of others every day.

How to vote

Simply scan the QR code in-centre or click ‘Vote Now’ below.

Visit the exhibition space located at Level 2, near Farmers from 25 August to 20 September to learn more about your three Westfield Local Hero finalists and the incredible work they're doing in the community.

Meet our Westfield Local Hero finalists

Ivor Peksa

North Shore Community Toy Library

Giving. Dependable. Impactful.

Ivor Peksa is helping children and families across Auckland’s North Shore learn, play and belong. Through his leadership of North Shore Community Toy Library, he ensures families can access affordable toys and learning resources, while creating valuable community connections that support the wellbeing of more than 2,000 children and their whānau each year.

If Ivor is successful, the grant will help expand the core toy collection and party-pack materials, plus an extra weekly opening session for the Toy Library, and neurodiverse and sensory play resources.

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Libby Priscott

The Nest Collective NZ

Caring. Generous. Devoted.

For more than a decade, Libby Priscott has helped Auckland babies born into hardship get a safe, warm and supportive start in life. At The Nest Collective, she runs the pēpi pack programme, supplying free bundles of donated baby essentials that reach thousands of caregivers, babies and whānau each year.

If Libby is successful, the grant will support the delivery of 250 pēpi packs containing new, pre-loved, and repurposed items, including clothing, bedding, books and toys.

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Rachel Hessey

Coastguard Hibiscus

Dedicated. Inspiring. Selfless.

Rachel Hessey combines frontline rescue work with community leadership at Coastguard Hibiscus. As the team's only female qualified Master, she helps keep crews and community connected, champions women in maritime rescue, and supports the lifesaving work that keeps people safe across the Hauraki Gulf.

If Rachel is successful, the grant will help fund regular on-water training for 45 volunteers over two years.

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If you need support, please phone Lifeline Aotearoa: 0800 543 354

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Albany nominees and their organisations.