Voting has now closed
Thank you for voting for your 2026 Westfield Manukau Local Hero.
We are excited to announce the successful hero on 20 October.
In 2026, the successful hero for each of our 42 Westfield destinations is awarded a $20,000 grant for the organisation or group they represent, and each finalist receives a $5,000 grant for their organisation or group.
2027 nominations open 20 October.
How to vote
Simply scan the QR code in-centre or click ‘Vote Now’ below.
Visit the exhibition space located outside Typo, Ground floor, 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
Alisi Kivalu
Oke Charity
Trusted. Humble. Powerful.
Across South Auckland, outdoor classrooms are taking shape through community working bees, and Alisi Kivalu is at the heart of that work. With Oke Charity, she leads building projects within schools that create lasting spaces where children grow food, learn practical skills, and connect with nature.
If Alisi is successful, the grant will fund a full outdoor classroom build at a South Auckland school, including raised garden beds, a tunnel house, soil, compost, tools and planting materials.
Elizabeth Fa'alili
Taime Pasifika Cancer Support
Compassionate. Resilient. Inclusive.
Elizabeth Fa'alili founded Taime Pasifika Cancer Support to ensure no Pasifika family faces cancer alone. Drawing on her own experience as a cancer survivor, she now supports over 1,000 people through culturally grounded care, connection, advocacy and guidance navigating the health system.
If Elizabeth is successful, the grant will expand Taime's in-person programme, increasing the number of dedicated men's gatherings from once every three months to monthly.
Elizabeth Walker
Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri
Caring. Hardworking. Strong.
Elizabeth Walker supports vulnerable women and children who are experiencing domestic and family violence. As Chief Executive of Te Whare, a kaupapa Māori that helps those who have suffered harm to heal and move forward, Elizabeth strives to empower women to live free from violence and raises awareness among communities and partners.
If Elizabeth is successful, the grant will fund additional staffing as well as practical resources including safe transport and emergency accommodation.
If you need support, please phone Lifeline Aotearoa: 0800 543 354
Recognising all our 2026 nominees
View all of the Westfield Manukau nominees and their organisations.