Kiwi of Year says award helped cause

CHRIS SKELTON

OPENING DOORS:Ray Avery at the launch of the New Zealander of the Year Awards 2011.

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The former London street kid turned scientist named inaugural New Zealander of the Year says it greatly helped his entrepreneurial social welfare causes.

Ray Avery was recognised at the 2010 award for his invention of low-cost intraocular lenses, which are expected to benefit an estimated 30 million people worldwide by 2020.

The 63-year-old Aucklander spoke last night at the launch of the 2011 awards at a function at Te Papa in Wellington.

Winning the award had made his life easier. "People now know about us. They come to the door to help.

"It's all about New Zealanders helping each other."

He established Medicine Mondiale as an independent charitable agency in 2003.

The organisation operates in part out of his Auckland garage and creates low-cost medical solutions to global health and poverty problems.

Fairfax Media, publisher of The Dominion Post, helps present the awards.

Up for grabs this year are:

Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year, honouring the inspirational achievements of a remarkable individual.

Countdown Senior New Zealander of the Year, recognising over 60s making a positive contribution.

Kiwibank Local Heroes, rewarding everyday people doing extraordinary things.

Coca-Cola Amatil Young New Zealander of the Year award, focusing on role models from the 15-30 age-group.

Mitre 10 Community of the Year awards, acknowledging groups and organisations working together to build better communities.

One national winner will be celebrated at a gala awards dinner in Auckland on February 2.

Former prime minister and Kiwibank chairman Jim Bolger is the awards patron.

Nominations are now open. They can be completed online at www.nzawards.org.nz.

Winners of the major award categories will each receive a $5000 grant from Kiwibank.

- © Fairfax NZ News