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 St Lukes, 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 Muffin Break 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

Lana Petrovic

Mercy Hospice

Compassionate. Kind. Dedicated.

At Mercy Hospice, Lana Petrovic helps diverse communities navigate end-of-life care with dignity and confidence. Through trusted relationships, community wānanga and volunteer training, she helps to break down barriers to support and reaches more than 7,000 people each year.

If Lana is successful, the grant will expand the At Home Aged and Palliative Services programme, funding culturally responsive training resources, community workshops and digital tools for carers.

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Samuel Bunkall

RPE

Passionate. Resilient. Inspiring.

For more than 15 years, Sam Bunkall has helped young people build knowledge around consent, respect and healthy relationships as an educator with Rape Prevention Education Whakatu Mauri Trust. Sam has delivered workshops to more than 1,000 students in the local area and takes his advocacy beyond the classroom through select expert advice to Parliament and media.

If Samuel is successful, the grant will fund digital learning resources on consent and respectful relationships, designed for Māori, Pacific, rural and isolated communities and people living with disabilities.

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Susanne Ritzenhoff

Toi Ora Live Art Trust

Nuturing. Transformative. Principled.

As director Toi Ora Live Arts Trust, Susanne Ritzenhoff nurtures a welcoming space where people experiencing mental distress can enhance their wellbeing through creativity. Under her leadership, enrolment in the free creative programmes has doubled, with more than 500 artists now engaged in visual and performing arts and studio time.

If Susanne is successful, the grant will fund a new workshop programme for families supporting a loved one experiencing mental health challenges, covering tutor fees, materials, venue and administration.

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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 St Lukes nominees and their organisations.