Wellington's Safety Heroes to be Honoured

Whether they're professional lifesavers, Cuba Street merchants or safety-minded folk, the Wellingtonians who went above-and-beyond to help keep their fellow citizens safe will be honoured in a civic ceremony next week.

The eighth annual Wellington Safety in the City Awards will be held 5.30pm Tuesday October 16 at the Wellington City Council Chambers.

The community awards recognise deserving recipients - people who were in the right place at the right time to save lives or who have worked tirelessly, often with little recognition, to keep Wellington and Wellingtonians safe.

This year's nominations include people who faced extreme danger in high-profile tragedies and near-misses, such as the Cuba Mall car protest and the Strathmore neighbours who intervened in a murder, and people who've dedicated their lives to making the community a safer place, such as cycle safety and supporting vulnerable youth.

Mayor Celia Wade-Brown will be joined by Wellington Police Area Commander Inspector Chris Scahill to present the awards. The event will be hosted by Councillor Stephanie Cook, portfolio leader Social.

Last year's winners included a woman who stepped in to save a neighbour from a knife attack, rescuers in the East by West Ferry near-sinking, a volunteer who initiated a programme to reduce alcohol-related harm, and a quick-thinking flight attendant who saved the life of a passenger suffering a heart attack.