Black Ferns star Ruby Tui and All Blacks great Sir John Kirwan stand out as sport's big winners, as the finalists for New Zealander of the Year are announced.
Named among 22 finalists in seven categories, both Tui and Sir John have been highlighted among the final four for the top award - expanded from three for the first time.
Tui, 31, is recognised for her efforts during last year's Women's Rugby World Cup, won by the Black Ferns for an unprecedented sixth time.
In the moments after New Zealand's thrilling 34-31 win over England, Tui also performed an impromptu rendition of 'Tūtira Mai Ngā Iwi', joined by most of the 42,000-strong crowd at Auckland's Eden Park for the final.
The tournament saw a seismic shift in the perception of the women's game.
"The moment encapsulated so much of what New Zealanders have come to know and love about Tui - her energy, her heart and her passion for women's rugby," said the nomination.
"However, her impact goes well beyond international awards - inspiring young players across the world and fundamentally changing the way New Zealanders think about women's rugby."
Being named as New Zealander of the Year would be another accolade for Tui across a stellar career, who was also 2022 World Rugby 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year and a 2020 Olympic gold medallist.
Meanwhile, Kirwan's continued work in mental health, after finishing his playing career in the 1990s, also sees him recognised.
"In 2022, Kirwan embarked on a two-week road trip across Aotearoa, fundraising and advocating for his initiative - the Mitey Programme - helping children to build age-appropriate skills, knowledge and understanding to look after their own emotional wellbeing."
The tour raised $1 million to enable children to undertake the programme.
Joining Tui and Kirwan as finalists are academic Professor Rangi Mātāmua, who was instrumental in the creation of Matariki as a New Zealand public holiday.
Entertainers Jools and Lynda Topp share the final nomination, recognising their work - not only in comedy and music - but also for their roles in the LGBTQIA+ community.
The New Zealander of the Year award winners will be announced on March 30.
