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Mandii Pope Art
gallery
best of british
nzer of the year
gallery - best of british / new zealander of the year
Honouring Icons in Mandii Pope’s Best of British Series – Celebrating UK New Zealanders of the Year
Mandii Pope’s Best of British Series is a captivating tribute to famous British personalities, artfully morphed with the inspiring New Zealanders who have been honoured as UK New Zealander of the Year by the New Zealand Society UK. This unique series blends the spirit of two nations, celebrating the accomplishments of Kiwis in the UK by merging their likenesses with iconic British figures, creating a powerful symbol of cultural connection and shared pride.
Each painting in the series reflects Mandii’s bold and dynamic style, with vibrant colours and intricate detail capturing the personalities and accomplishments of these remarkable individuals. From celebrated leaders to cultural influencers, the Best of British Series shines a light on those who have bridged the distance between the UK and New Zealand, embodying the best qualities of both worlds.
Explore the Best of British Series at Mandii Pope Art - Best of British and celebrate the achievements of UK-based New Zealanders through Mandii Pope’s inspiring, cross-cultural portraiture.
The Best of British series plays homage to inspiring Brits. The UK New Zealander of the year portraits are with the NZ Society, gifted as a prize during the Waitangi day Ball in London. All are 80cm circular spin paintings with an air brushed black and white portrait on either MDF or canvas.
See Shop Best of British / NZer of the Year for available work to purchase
Vivienne Westwood
Acrylic on MDF
80cm diameter
2010
Unframed
I painted Vivienne because I wanted to try a controlled technique with the spin machine of the British Flag, and wanted to use the iconic image of one of Britain's finest creative's.
Vivienne Westwood created the fashionable Punk movement with the Sex Pistols which is still popular today. I love everything she stands for and to me she is a complete inspiration.
I have used the spin technique on her hair and the flag.
80cm diameter
2010
Unframed
I painted Vivienne because I wanted to try a controlled technique with the spin machine of the British Flag, and wanted to use the iconic image of one of Britain's finest creative's.
Vivienne Westwood created the fashionable Punk movement with the Sex Pistols which is still popular today. I love everything she stands for and to me she is a complete inspiration.
I have used the spin technique on her hair and the flag.
Billy T James
Acrylic on canvas
H 60cm x W 60cm
2010
Unframed
SOLD
My Best of British series started off with the inspiration to paint a straight line on a spinning machine using the British Flag. James joined the Maori Volcanics Showband in the 1970s and performed around the world. Going solo in Australia and then New Zealand saw him in great demand for his skits and impressions and his cabaret singing. He starred with Peter Rowley and Annie Whittle in a series of sketches, and starred in Radio Times, on TV in 1980 and the feature film Came a Hot Friday directed by Ian Mune in 1985. He was New Zealand Entertainer of the Year in 1981 and Entertainer of the Decade in 1985. He and Chris Slane wrote a comic book in 1986 called Billy T James Real Hard Case, and a second comic book in 1987 called Real Hard Case 2. Billy also provided a voice for the 1986 animated film, Footrot Flats: The Dog's Tail. He and Tom Parkinson, of Isambard Productions, devised a 1989 sitcom, The Billy T James Show. Starring effectively as himself, James' co-stars were Ilona Rodgers and Mark Hadlow, with and Willa O'Neil. The pilot for the series was not broadcast, but was included on Te Video Billy T James and Friends, a VHS compilation of classic James moments released by Isambard Productions. His last television performance was the hour long The Billy T James Show Christmas special in After his heart transplant in 1988, Billy returned to the stage in 1990, in the variety special Billy T James, Alive and Gigging. Among the special guests was Howard Morrison, another famous Māori entertainer. James' health deteriorated swiftly following the stage show, and he died from a heart attack on 7 August 1991. He was well known for his trademark yellow towel, black singlet and black shorts used in the skits,Te News and Marae Witness News. He is remembered for his famous 'Māori chuckle', and his quotes: "If it wasn't for the Poms you'd all be the same colour as me, mate!",and "I'm half Scot, half Māori. One half wants to get pissed (drunk) and the other doesn't want to pay for it".
H 60cm x W 60cm
2010
Unframed
SOLD
My Best of British series started off with the inspiration to paint a straight line on a spinning machine using the British Flag. James joined the Maori Volcanics Showband in the 1970s and performed around the world. Going solo in Australia and then New Zealand saw him in great demand for his skits and impressions and his cabaret singing. He starred with Peter Rowley and Annie Whittle in a series of sketches, and starred in Radio Times, on TV in 1980 and the feature film Came a Hot Friday directed by Ian Mune in 1985. He was New Zealand Entertainer of the Year in 1981 and Entertainer of the Decade in 1985. He and Chris Slane wrote a comic book in 1986 called Billy T James Real Hard Case, and a second comic book in 1987 called Real Hard Case 2. Billy also provided a voice for the 1986 animated film, Footrot Flats: The Dog's Tail. He and Tom Parkinson, of Isambard Productions, devised a 1989 sitcom, The Billy T James Show. Starring effectively as himself, James' co-stars were Ilona Rodgers and Mark Hadlow, with and Willa O'Neil. The pilot for the series was not broadcast, but was included on Te Video Billy T James and Friends, a VHS compilation of classic James moments released by Isambard Productions. His last television performance was the hour long The Billy T James Show Christmas special in After his heart transplant in 1988, Billy returned to the stage in 1990, in the variety special Billy T James, Alive and Gigging. Among the special guests was Howard Morrison, another famous Māori entertainer. James' health deteriorated swiftly following the stage show, and he died from a heart attack on 7 August 1991. He was well known for his trademark yellow towel, black singlet and black shorts used in the skits,Te News and Marae Witness News. He is remembered for his famous 'Māori chuckle', and his quotes: "If it wasn't for the Poms you'd all be the same colour as me, mate!",and "I'm half Scot, half Māori. One half wants to get pissed (drunk) and the other doesn't want to pay for it".
Sir Owen Glenn
Acrylic on MDF
80cm diameter
2010
Unframed
SOLD
My Best of British series started off with the inspiration to paint a straight line on a spinning machine using the British Flag. The first in my series was one of Britain’s finest creative’s Vivienne Westwood. Since then I decided there were many outstanding New Zealanders that should also be part of this series extending it to be Best of British Colonies to keep with the theme. I started with Billy T James and now this one of Owie. I am a big believer in Karma. The spin paintings are a series of ubiquitous circles. Each representing the good we do in life. I believe having a pure heart, giving what you can, and loving with all your heart unconditionally unprejudiced against today's social barriers and hierarchies constitutes towards the energy and effect we have on each other. The Ubiquitous circle is also fitting for Owen, as it is the name of his much loved boat and his outlook. The hat is tilted to the side to represent his love of life. The Tiki embedded within the star on the Southern Cross is a good charm and safe travelling over water.
Without Owen, I would have never have been able to accomplish one of my biggest dreams, and that was to have a solo exhibition in Dubai. I am eternally grateful for his help along with his colleagues. Since Dubai the snowball just keeps rolling faster. Owen helps so many people and is an absolute inspiration to all those around him. I have all the time in the world for this man and am truly blessed to know him and be a small part of his world. I felt Owen should be up there with my Best of British Colonies (New Zealand) series. He is a great man and I do hope this painting has done him justice. This painting is a gift to him from me, to thank him for enabling me to live a dream and teaching me that dreams really do come true..
Thank you Owen for the helping me grab the opportunity. Happy Birthday Owie xx
80cm diameter
2010
Unframed
SOLD
My Best of British series started off with the inspiration to paint a straight line on a spinning machine using the British Flag. The first in my series was one of Britain’s finest creative’s Vivienne Westwood. Since then I decided there were many outstanding New Zealanders that should also be part of this series extending it to be Best of British Colonies to keep with the theme. I started with Billy T James and now this one of Owie. I am a big believer in Karma. The spin paintings are a series of ubiquitous circles. Each representing the good we do in life. I believe having a pure heart, giving what you can, and loving with all your heart unconditionally unprejudiced against today's social barriers and hierarchies constitutes towards the energy and effect we have on each other. The Ubiquitous circle is also fitting for Owen, as it is the name of his much loved boat and his outlook. The hat is tilted to the side to represent his love of life. The Tiki embedded within the star on the Southern Cross is a good charm and safe travelling over water.
Without Owen, I would have never have been able to accomplish one of my biggest dreams, and that was to have a solo exhibition in Dubai. I am eternally grateful for his help along with his colleagues. Since Dubai the snowball just keeps rolling faster. Owen helps so many people and is an absolute inspiration to all those around him. I have all the time in the world for this man and am truly blessed to know him and be a small part of his world. I felt Owen should be up there with my Best of British Colonies (New Zealand) series. He is a great man and I do hope this painting has done him justice. This painting is a gift to him from me, to thank him for enabling me to live a dream and teaching me that dreams really do come true..
Thank you Owen for the helping me grab the opportunity. Happy Birthday Owie xx
Sir Brian Moore
Acrylic on canvas
H 60cm x W 60cm
2010
Unframed
SOLD
After a large corporate commission of Damien Hirst inspired spin paintings, I started her Best of British series using the spin painting technique with the British Flag including icons Vivienne Westwood, Billy T James, Owen Glenn and Barry Sheene. This commission was painted for the Charity Hospice of Hope at the fundraising City Dinner. Brian Moore X England Rugby player and BBC presenter is the guest speaker for the evening, The painting will be signed by Brian Moore and Auctioned off for the charity. Would you believe he is actually singing the National Anthem in this photo.
Moore represented England, winning a total of 64 England caps between 1987 and 1995, making him the 13th most-capped Englishman (as of July 2007). Known for reading Shakespeare - in particular, parts of Henry V before a game in the dressing room to his team mates, Moore played in three Rugby World Cups including in 1991 where along with Jason Leonard and Jeff Probyn he was part of a destructive English front row as they reached the final, losing a tight match 12-6 to Australia at Twickenham. Moore was also a member of the England side which won Grand Slams in 1991, 1992 and 1995. In 1991, he was voted Rugby World Player of the Year, a decade before the sport's governing body (the IRB), began its awards programme.
H 60cm x W 60cm
2010
Unframed
SOLD
After a large corporate commission of Damien Hirst inspired spin paintings, I started her Best of British series using the spin painting technique with the British Flag including icons Vivienne Westwood, Billy T James, Owen Glenn and Barry Sheene. This commission was painted for the Charity Hospice of Hope at the fundraising City Dinner. Brian Moore X England Rugby player and BBC presenter is the guest speaker for the evening, The painting will be signed by Brian Moore and Auctioned off for the charity. Would you believe he is actually singing the National Anthem in this photo.
Moore represented England, winning a total of 64 England caps between 1987 and 1995, making him the 13th most-capped Englishman (as of July 2007). Known for reading Shakespeare - in particular, parts of Henry V before a game in the dressing room to his team mates, Moore played in three Rugby World Cups including in 1991 where along with Jason Leonard and Jeff Probyn he was part of a destructive English front row as they reached the final, losing a tight match 12-6 to Australia at Twickenham. Moore was also a member of the England side which won Grand Slams in 1991, 1992 and 1995. In 1991, he was voted Rugby World Player of the Year, a decade before the sport's governing body (the IRB), began its awards programme.
Barry Sheene
Acrylic on canvas
H 60cm x W 60cm
2010
Unframed
SOLD
My Best of British series started off with the inspiration to paint a straight line on a spinning machine using the British Flag. Barry Sheene was known for being outspoken in his criticism for what he considered to be dangerous race tracks, most notably, the Isle of Man TT course, which he considered too dangerous for world championship competition. He was a colourful, exuberant character who used his good looks, grin and Cockney accent to good effect in self-promotion, and combined with an interest in business was one of the first riders to make a lot of money from endorsements. He is credited with boosting the appeal of motorcycle racing into the realm of the mass marketing media. He also tried his hand as a TV show host, including the ITV series , where he interviewed people who had, through accident or design, achieved feats of daring and survival (including the former RAF air gunner, Nicholas Alkemade, who survived a fall of 18,000 feet without a parachute from a blazing Avro Lancaster bomber over Germany in March 1944). He died in 2003 of cancer of the stomach and oesophagus, and is survived by his wife Stephanie McLean and two children. Following reconstruction of the Brands Hatch Circuit in England for safety concerns after requests by the F.I.M., the Dingle Dell section was changed for safety, and shortly after Sheene's death the new section was renamed Sheene's Corner in his honour. The FIM named him a Grand Prix "Legend" in 2001. At the 2004 season, V8 Supercars Australia made a memorial medal, calling it the Barry Sheene Medal. A memorial ride from Bairnsdale, Victoria to Phillip Island is held by Australian motorcyclists annually, before the MotoGP held at the island.
This commission was painted for Marc Jenner. Barry Sheene was his childhood hero, a legend in Superbike Racing in the 70/s and 80’s.
H 60cm x W 60cm
2010
Unframed
SOLD
My Best of British series started off with the inspiration to paint a straight line on a spinning machine using the British Flag. Barry Sheene was known for being outspoken in his criticism for what he considered to be dangerous race tracks, most notably, the Isle of Man TT course, which he considered too dangerous for world championship competition. He was a colourful, exuberant character who used his good looks, grin and Cockney accent to good effect in self-promotion, and combined with an interest in business was one of the first riders to make a lot of money from endorsements. He is credited with boosting the appeal of motorcycle racing into the realm of the mass marketing media. He also tried his hand as a TV show host, including the ITV series , where he interviewed people who had, through accident or design, achieved feats of daring and survival (including the former RAF air gunner, Nicholas Alkemade, who survived a fall of 18,000 feet without a parachute from a blazing Avro Lancaster bomber over Germany in March 1944). He died in 2003 of cancer of the stomach and oesophagus, and is survived by his wife Stephanie McLean and two children. Following reconstruction of the Brands Hatch Circuit in England for safety concerns after requests by the F.I.M., the Dingle Dell section was changed for safety, and shortly after Sheene's death the new section was renamed Sheene's Corner in his honour. The FIM named him a Grand Prix "Legend" in 2001. At the 2004 season, V8 Supercars Australia made a memorial medal, calling it the Barry Sheene Medal. A memorial ride from Bairnsdale, Victoria to Phillip Island is held by Australian motorcyclists annually, before the MotoGP held at the island.
This commission was painted for Marc Jenner. Barry Sheene was his childhood hero, a legend in Superbike Racing in the 70/s and 80’s.
The David
Acrylic on MDF
80cm diameter
2010
Unframed
SOLD
My Best of British series started off with the inspiration to paint a straight line on a spinning machine using the British Flag. The first in my series was one of Britain’s finest creative’s Vivienne Westwood.
2 work colleagues (Mike George and Raj Seeray) suggested that I paint our boss David Todd. I thought that that was a fabulous idea! I asked around for the girls to check their photos to see if we could find the perfect photo of David. I came across this photo from one of our staff Xmas parties a few years ago. Raj naming it “The David”
David is the mastermind behind this spin painting project. I started with 10 for the Landmark offices, then was asked to create another 15. I decided to paint an additional 35 to make sure Landmark get the best 15 which they feel suit their needs for the office. I have loved every moment of this project.
I felt David definitely should be up there with my Best of British series. He is a great man and I do hope this painting has done him justice. This painting is a gift to him from me, to thank him for spurring me off on a new creative revolution. Thank you David and Richard for the opportunity. xx
80cm diameter
2010
Unframed
SOLD
My Best of British series started off with the inspiration to paint a straight line on a spinning machine using the British Flag. The first in my series was one of Britain’s finest creative’s Vivienne Westwood.
2 work colleagues (Mike George and Raj Seeray) suggested that I paint our boss David Todd. I thought that that was a fabulous idea! I asked around for the girls to check their photos to see if we could find the perfect photo of David. I came across this photo from one of our staff Xmas parties a few years ago. Raj naming it “The David”
David is the mastermind behind this spin painting project. I started with 10 for the Landmark offices, then was asked to create another 15. I decided to paint an additional 35 to make sure Landmark get the best 15 which they feel suit their needs for the office. I have loved every moment of this project.
I felt David definitely should be up there with my Best of British series. He is a great man and I do hope this painting has done him justice. This painting is a gift to him from me, to thank him for spurring me off on a new creative revolution. Thank you David and Richard for the opportunity. xx
Captain James Cook
Acrylic on canvas
80cm diameter
2015
Unframed
Captain James Cook, FRS, RN (7 November 1728 – 14 February 1779) was a British explorer, navigator, cartographer, and captain in the Royal Navy. Cook made detailed maps of Newfoundland prior to making three voyages to the Pacific Ocean, during which he achieved the first recorded European contact with the eastern coastline of Australia and the Hawaiian Islands, and the first recorded circumnavigation of New Zealand.
Cook joined the British merchant navy as a teenager and joined the Royal Navy in 1755. He saw action in the Seven Years' War and subsequently surveyed and mapped much of the entrance to the Saint Lawrence River during the siege of Quebec. This helped bring Cook to the attention of the Admiralty and Royal Society. This notice came at a crucial moment in both Cook's career and the direction of British overseas exploration, and led to his commission in 1766 as commander of HM Bark Endeavour for the first of three Pacific voyages.
In three voyages Cook sailed thousands of miles across largely uncharted areas of the globe. He mapped lands from New Zealand to Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean in greater detail and on a scale not previously achieved. As he progressed on his voyages of discovery he surveyed and named features, and recorded islands and coastlines on European maps for the first time. He displayed a combination of seamanship, superior surveying and cartographic skills, physical courage and an ability to lead men in adverse conditions.
Cook was killed in Hawaii in a fight with Hawaiians during his third exploratory voyage in the Pacific in 1779. He left a legacy of scientific and geographical knowledge which was to influence his successors well into the 20th century and numerous memoria worldwide have been dedicated to him
80cm diameter
2015
Unframed
Captain James Cook, FRS, RN (7 November 1728 – 14 February 1779) was a British explorer, navigator, cartographer, and captain in the Royal Navy. Cook made detailed maps of Newfoundland prior to making three voyages to the Pacific Ocean, during which he achieved the first recorded European contact with the eastern coastline of Australia and the Hawaiian Islands, and the first recorded circumnavigation of New Zealand.
Cook joined the British merchant navy as a teenager and joined the Royal Navy in 1755. He saw action in the Seven Years' War and subsequently surveyed and mapped much of the entrance to the Saint Lawrence River during the siege of Quebec. This helped bring Cook to the attention of the Admiralty and Royal Society. This notice came at a crucial moment in both Cook's career and the direction of British overseas exploration, and led to his commission in 1766 as commander of HM Bark Endeavour for the first of three Pacific voyages.
In three voyages Cook sailed thousands of miles across largely uncharted areas of the globe. He mapped lands from New Zealand to Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean in greater detail and on a scale not previously achieved. As he progressed on his voyages of discovery he surveyed and named features, and recorded islands and coastlines on European maps for the first time. He displayed a combination of seamanship, superior surveying and cartographic skills, physical courage and an ability to lead men in adverse conditions.
Cook was killed in Hawaii in a fight with Hawaiians during his third exploratory voyage in the Pacific in 1779. He left a legacy of scientific and geographical knowledge which was to influence his successors well into the 20th century and numerous memoria worldwide have been dedicated to him
Bronwen Horton NZer of the Year 2013
Acrylic on canvas
80cm diameter
2013
Unframed
SOLD
For the first time in five years, the New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball, will be at The Ballroom at The Dorchester in Park Lane. This superb venue will be the backdrop for the most glittering social event for New Zealanders in London. The UK New Zealander of the Year Award is recognised as one of the most prestigious honours within the New Zealand community in the United Kingdom. This annual award recognises and celebrates the person who has made the most outstanding personal contribution in the UK to promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders, whether in public life, by charitable work, or achievement in the arts, sport or academia. Last year’s winner was Kent Gardner, for his extraordinary efforts in raising much-needed money for people of Canterbury following the devastating earthquakes there in September 2010 and February 2011. Other past winners include Terry Smith, Anna Hansen MBE, Esther Jessop, Ian Conrich, Tom & Susan Glynn, Peter Leslie, Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas, The Rt Hon Don McKinnon, Michael Campbell, the late Harry Mahon, Mark Todd and Peter Gordon.
The Judging Panel met in December, and we are very proud to announce that the three finalists selected for the UK New Zealander of the Year Award 2013 are (in alphabetical order by surname):
1. Katherine Corich;
2. Matt Hickey; and
3. Bronwen Horton.
Each finalist has been invited to attend the New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball to be held in The Ballroom at The Dorchester in London on Friday, 8 February 2013 where the winner of the 2013 Award will be announced.
The winner will have the right to be recognised as the UK New Zealander of the Year 2013, and will receive return flights for two (2) from the UK to New Zealand, courtesy of Air New Zealand. We offer our congratulations to Katherine, Matt and Bronwen for making this year’s finals, and look forward to revealing the winner at the Waitangi Day Charity Ball on 8 February 2013.
80cm diameter
2013
Unframed
SOLD
For the first time in five years, the New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball, will be at The Ballroom at The Dorchester in Park Lane. This superb venue will be the backdrop for the most glittering social event for New Zealanders in London. The UK New Zealander of the Year Award is recognised as one of the most prestigious honours within the New Zealand community in the United Kingdom. This annual award recognises and celebrates the person who has made the most outstanding personal contribution in the UK to promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders, whether in public life, by charitable work, or achievement in the arts, sport or academia. Last year’s winner was Kent Gardner, for his extraordinary efforts in raising much-needed money for people of Canterbury following the devastating earthquakes there in September 2010 and February 2011. Other past winners include Terry Smith, Anna Hansen MBE, Esther Jessop, Ian Conrich, Tom & Susan Glynn, Peter Leslie, Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas, The Rt Hon Don McKinnon, Michael Campbell, the late Harry Mahon, Mark Todd and Peter Gordon.
The Judging Panel met in December, and we are very proud to announce that the three finalists selected for the UK New Zealander of the Year Award 2013 are (in alphabetical order by surname):
1. Katherine Corich;
2. Matt Hickey; and
3. Bronwen Horton.
Each finalist has been invited to attend the New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball to be held in The Ballroom at The Dorchester in London on Friday, 8 February 2013 where the winner of the 2013 Award will be announced.
The winner will have the right to be recognised as the UK New Zealander of the Year 2013, and will receive return flights for two (2) from the UK to New Zealand, courtesy of Air New Zealand. We offer our congratulations to Katherine, Matt and Bronwen for making this year’s finals, and look forward to revealing the winner at the Waitangi Day Charity Ball on 8 February 2013.
Katherine Corich NZer of the Year 2014
Acrylic on canvas
80cm diameter
2014
Unframed
SOLD
New Zealand businesswoman Katherine Corich has been named the UK New Zealander of the Year.
The award was presented at the New Zealand Society's Waitangi Day Charity Ball in London and recognises the outstanding contribution that a New Zealand or British national has made in promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders in Britain.
Corich, who is the founder and director of international business consultancy firm Sysdoc, was nominated for her contributions to New Zealand business, community and fundraising causes.
In recent years Corich has supported a number of boards and projects, including The Quake Studies Advisory Board, Global Women Leaders, Women In Leadership, Global Angels, Kea's World Class New Zealand network and the University of Canterbury's CEISMIC digital archive programme.
Katherine Corich has been named the UK New Zealander of the Year 2015 at the New Zealand Society’s Waitangi Day Charity Ball held at The Park Lane Hotel Piccadilly, London on the evening of Friday, 6th February 2015.
The award recognises the outstanding contribution that a New Zealand or British national has made in promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders in the United Kingdom.
Katherine Corich received the 2015 award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to New Zealanders in the UK and in New Zealand, and for presenting a positive image of New Zealand in the United Kingdom. Nominated for her contributions to New Zealand business, community and fundraising causes.
Katherine Corich founded the Sysdoc group 25 years ago and has grown it into a global multi-award winning provider of services in Business Transformation, Cultural Change, Training, Simulated Learning and Knowledge Portals. With operations in four countries; UK, US, Australia and New Zealand, and projects in many more.
Despite the demands of an internationally recognised and successful business, Katherine tirelessly shares her knowledge with others, and demonstrates her pride in New Zealand and desire for New Zealanders global success by giving of her advice and support on a regular basis. Her Philanthropic ventures have seen her take on a worldwide view on issues which affect women and their communities. In recent years Katherine has provided support to a number of boards and projects: The Quake Studies Advisory Board, Global Women Leaders, Women In Leadership, Global Angels, Kea World Class New Zealander network, University of Canterbury’s CEISMIC digital archive programme.
80cm diameter
2014
Unframed
SOLD
New Zealand businesswoman Katherine Corich has been named the UK New Zealander of the Year.
The award was presented at the New Zealand Society's Waitangi Day Charity Ball in London and recognises the outstanding contribution that a New Zealand or British national has made in promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders in Britain.
Corich, who is the founder and director of international business consultancy firm Sysdoc, was nominated for her contributions to New Zealand business, community and fundraising causes.
In recent years Corich has supported a number of boards and projects, including The Quake Studies Advisory Board, Global Women Leaders, Women In Leadership, Global Angels, Kea's World Class New Zealand network and the University of Canterbury's CEISMIC digital archive programme.
Katherine Corich has been named the UK New Zealander of the Year 2015 at the New Zealand Society’s Waitangi Day Charity Ball held at The Park Lane Hotel Piccadilly, London on the evening of Friday, 6th February 2015.
The award recognises the outstanding contribution that a New Zealand or British national has made in promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders in the United Kingdom.
Katherine Corich received the 2015 award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to New Zealanders in the UK and in New Zealand, and for presenting a positive image of New Zealand in the United Kingdom. Nominated for her contributions to New Zealand business, community and fundraising causes.
Katherine Corich founded the Sysdoc group 25 years ago and has grown it into a global multi-award winning provider of services in Business Transformation, Cultural Change, Training, Simulated Learning and Knowledge Portals. With operations in four countries; UK, US, Australia and New Zealand, and projects in many more.
Despite the demands of an internationally recognised and successful business, Katherine tirelessly shares her knowledge with others, and demonstrates her pride in New Zealand and desire for New Zealanders global success by giving of her advice and support on a regular basis. Her Philanthropic ventures have seen her take on a worldwide view on issues which affect women and their communities. In recent years Katherine has provided support to a number of boards and projects: The Quake Studies Advisory Board, Global Women Leaders, Women In Leadership, Global Angels, Kea World Class New Zealander network, University of Canterbury’s CEISMIC digital archive programme.
Eric Tracey NZer of the Year 2015
Acrylic on canvas
80cm diameter
2015
Unframed
The UK New Zealander of the Year Award is recognised as one of the most prestigious honours within the New Zealand community in the United Kingdom. This annual award recognises and celebrates the person who has made the most outstanding personal contribution in the UK to promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders, whether in public life, by charitable work, or achievement in the arts, sport or academia. Past winners include Terry Smith, Anna Hansen MBE, Esther Jessop, Ian Conrich, Tom & Susan Glynn, Peter Leslie, Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas, The Rt Hon Don McKinnon, Michael Campbell, the late Harry Mahon, Mark Todd and Peter Gordon, Kent Gardner and Bronwen Horton.
The Judging Panel met in December, Each finalist has been invited to attend the New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball to be held in The Ballroom at The Dorchester in London on Friday, 6th February 2014 where the winner of the 2014 Award will be announced.
The winner will have the right to be recognised as the UK New Zealander of the Year 2014, and will receive return flights for two (2) from the UK to New Zealand, courtesy of Air New Zealand. We offer our congratulations to finalists, and look forward to revealing the winner at the Waitangi Day Charity Ball on 8 February 2014.
80cm diameter
2015
Unframed
The UK New Zealander of the Year Award is recognised as one of the most prestigious honours within the New Zealand community in the United Kingdom. This annual award recognises and celebrates the person who has made the most outstanding personal contribution in the UK to promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders, whether in public life, by charitable work, or achievement in the arts, sport or academia. Past winners include Terry Smith, Anna Hansen MBE, Esther Jessop, Ian Conrich, Tom & Susan Glynn, Peter Leslie, Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas, The Rt Hon Don McKinnon, Michael Campbell, the late Harry Mahon, Mark Todd and Peter Gordon, Kent Gardner and Bronwen Horton.
The Judging Panel met in December, Each finalist has been invited to attend the New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball to be held in The Ballroom at The Dorchester in London on Friday, 6th February 2014 where the winner of the 2014 Award will be announced.
The winner will have the right to be recognised as the UK New Zealander of the Year 2014, and will receive return flights for two (2) from the UK to New Zealand, courtesy of Air New Zealand. We offer our congratulations to finalists, and look forward to revealing the winner at the Waitangi Day Charity Ball on 8 February 2014.
Mark Wilson NZer of the Year 2016
Acrylic on canvas
80cm diameter
2016
Unframed
SOLD
The UK New Zealander of the Year Award is recognised as one of the most prestigious honours within the New Zealand community in the United Kingdom. This annual award recognises and celebrates the person who has made the most outstanding personal contribution in the UK to promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders, whether in public life, by charitable work, or achievement in the arts, sport or academia. Past winners include Terry Smith, Anna Hansen MBE, Esther Jessop, Ian Conrich, Tom & Susan Glynn, Peter Leslie, Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas, The Rt Hon Don McKinnon, Michael Campbell, the late Harry Mahon, Mark Todd and Peter Gordon, Kent Gardner and Bronwen Horton, Eric Tracey and Katherine Corich.
The Judging Panel met in December, Each finalist has been invited to attend the New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball to be held in The Jumeirah Carlton Hotel in London on Friday,5th February 2016 where the winner of the 2016 Award will be announced.
The winner will have the right to be recognised as the UK New Zealander of the Year 2014, and will receive return flights for two (2) from the UK to New Zealand, courtesy of Air New Zealand. We offer our congratulations to finalists, and look forward to revealing the winner at the Waitangi Day Charity Ball on 8 February 2014.
Finalist: Mr Mark Wilson
Mark Wilson was born in Rotorua, New Zealand in 1966 and attended the University of Waikato on an economic scholarship. He is a turnaround specialist, building his reputation by fixing underperforming large global businesses. After beginning his career in New Zealand he spent 14 years in Asia, ending as Chief
Executive of Asian insurance giant, AIA. With the collapse of AIA’s US parent, AIG, in the global financial crisis, Mark restructured the company, leading to what was at the time the largest IPO in corporate history. Mark joined Aviva as Group Chief Executive Officer at the start of 2013. At that time the company was struggling. Under his leadership it has refocused, emerged as a British champion, and rebuilt its financial strength. He led Aviva’s £6 billion acquisition of Friends Life Group in 2015, the largest deal in the insurance sector for 15 years. Aviva is now a UK Top 30 Company, operating in 16 countries with 35 million customers and £300 billion of assets. He is a key commentator on the role of business in society, especially how companies must create a sustainable, long-term legacy – what he calls “being a good ancestor”. Mark spoke at the UN General Assembly in New York during the launch of the Sustainable Development Goals in September 2015 – the only global business leader to have done so.
80cm diameter
2016
Unframed
SOLD
The UK New Zealander of the Year Award is recognised as one of the most prestigious honours within the New Zealand community in the United Kingdom. This annual award recognises and celebrates the person who has made the most outstanding personal contribution in the UK to promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders, whether in public life, by charitable work, or achievement in the arts, sport or academia. Past winners include Terry Smith, Anna Hansen MBE, Esther Jessop, Ian Conrich, Tom & Susan Glynn, Peter Leslie, Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas, The Rt Hon Don McKinnon, Michael Campbell, the late Harry Mahon, Mark Todd and Peter Gordon, Kent Gardner and Bronwen Horton, Eric Tracey and Katherine Corich.
The Judging Panel met in December, Each finalist has been invited to attend the New Zealand Society Waitangi Day Charity Ball to be held in The Jumeirah Carlton Hotel in London on Friday,5th February 2016 where the winner of the 2016 Award will be announced.
The winner will have the right to be recognised as the UK New Zealander of the Year 2014, and will receive return flights for two (2) from the UK to New Zealand, courtesy of Air New Zealand. We offer our congratulations to finalists, and look forward to revealing the winner at the Waitangi Day Charity Ball on 8 February 2014.
Finalist: Mr Mark Wilson
Mark Wilson was born in Rotorua, New Zealand in 1966 and attended the University of Waikato on an economic scholarship. He is a turnaround specialist, building his reputation by fixing underperforming large global businesses. After beginning his career in New Zealand he spent 14 years in Asia, ending as Chief
Executive of Asian insurance giant, AIA. With the collapse of AIA’s US parent, AIG, in the global financial crisis, Mark restructured the company, leading to what was at the time the largest IPO in corporate history. Mark joined Aviva as Group Chief Executive Officer at the start of 2013. At that time the company was struggling. Under his leadership it has refocused, emerged as a British champion, and rebuilt its financial strength. He led Aviva’s £6 billion acquisition of Friends Life Group in 2015, the largest deal in the insurance sector for 15 years. Aviva is now a UK Top 30 Company, operating in 16 countries with 35 million customers and £300 billion of assets. He is a key commentator on the role of business in society, especially how companies must create a sustainable, long-term legacy – what he calls “being a good ancestor”. Mark spoke at the UN General Assembly in New York during the launch of the Sustainable Development Goals in September 2015 – the only global business leader to have done so.
Lady Alexandra & Sir Lockwood Smith NZer of the Year 2017
Acrylic on canvas
80cm diameter
2017
Unframed
SOLD
Lady Alexandra Smith has been named the UK New Zealander of the Year 2017 at the New Zealand Society’s Waitangi Day Charity Ball on the evening of 3 February 2017.
The award recognizes the outstanding contribution that a New Zealand or British national has made in promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders in the United Kingdom.
Alexandra has expanded New Zealand’s connections in the United Kingdom through building extensive networks spanning literature and the performing arts, academia, the legal profession, politics, business and diplomatic world.
Her charitable work with Breast Cancer Haven included negotiating generous ongoing sponsorship for BLUSH, the Haven’s top yearly fundraising event.
She has worked tirelessly for FANZA, the Foundation for Australian and New Zealand Arts, not just as a Board Member but in organising fundraising concerts showcasing New Zealand and Australian performers, hosting most at the Residence and catering
for the events personally.
Alexandra has actively supported the New Zealand Women’s Association as Patron and as a member spent hundreds of hours, almost singlehandedly, embroidering a large panel for the Mount Felix Tapestry, part of the WW100 commemorations at Walton-on Thames, the place of New Zealand’s WW1 No2 hospital. The panel shows the hospital ward where Alexandra’s grandfather was nursed back to life after severe shrapnel wounds suffered at the 2nd Somme.
Involvement in other organisations include being a Board member of NZ-UK LINK Foundation and a member of the UK Parliament Choir singing in the UK, at Notre Dame Cathedral and joining with Italian choirs in Anghiari, Tuscany, for their music festival.
When seeking to extend its own reach for a special event, the High Commission itself turned to Alexandra’s extraordinary network. She has been a strong supporter of the New Zealand Society UK and her generosity, grace and charm will be missed in London.
80cm diameter
2017
Unframed
SOLD
Lady Alexandra Smith has been named the UK New Zealander of the Year 2017 at the New Zealand Society’s Waitangi Day Charity Ball on the evening of 3 February 2017.
The award recognizes the outstanding contribution that a New Zealand or British national has made in promoting the interests of New Zealand or New Zealanders in the United Kingdom.
Alexandra has expanded New Zealand’s connections in the United Kingdom through building extensive networks spanning literature and the performing arts, academia, the legal profession, politics, business and diplomatic world.
Her charitable work with Breast Cancer Haven included negotiating generous ongoing sponsorship for BLUSH, the Haven’s top yearly fundraising event.
She has worked tirelessly for FANZA, the Foundation for Australian and New Zealand Arts, not just as a Board Member but in organising fundraising concerts showcasing New Zealand and Australian performers, hosting most at the Residence and catering
for the events personally.
Alexandra has actively supported the New Zealand Women’s Association as Patron and as a member spent hundreds of hours, almost singlehandedly, embroidering a large panel for the Mount Felix Tapestry, part of the WW100 commemorations at Walton-on Thames, the place of New Zealand’s WW1 No2 hospital. The panel shows the hospital ward where Alexandra’s grandfather was nursed back to life after severe shrapnel wounds suffered at the 2nd Somme.
Involvement in other organisations include being a Board member of NZ-UK LINK Foundation and a member of the UK Parliament Choir singing in the UK, at Notre Dame Cathedral and joining with Italian choirs in Anghiari, Tuscany, for their music festival.
When seeking to extend its own reach for a special event, the High Commission itself turned to Alexandra’s extraordinary network. She has been a strong supporter of the New Zealand Society UK and her generosity, grace and charm will be missed in London.
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