A man who helped raise money for the Canterbury earthquake appeal has won the UK New Zealander of the Year award at a gala function in London.
Kent Gardner made a big contribution in the Step Up 4 Christchurch event, a charity stair run up the 1037 steps to the top of the 180 metre tall Gherkin office tower in London.
The charity raised 325,000 pounds ($619,000) for Canterbury earthquake appeal.
Society president John Greager said that the tragic consequences of the Canterbury earthquake and the continuing aftershocks resulted in an unprecedented response from the New Zealand community in the UK.
Gardner, who hails from Dunedin, said it was humbling to receive the recognition.
"I am both proud to be a Kiwi in London, and honoured to be part of a great team of UK-based New Zealanders that are genuinely committed to supporting their country's interests while overseas."
The award was presented by Chris Myers, the UK-Europe general manager for event sponsor Air New Zealand.
Also a judge in the award, Myers also paid tribute to other New Zealanders in the UK who contributed to the Canterbury appeal.
"There were some outstanding examples of New Zealanders getting behind the Christchurch cause, but Kent Gardner and his team really stood out with their creativity and money raised, an awesome effort."
Gardner has lived in the UK for the last ten years, and is a founding partner and chief executive of a property fund managment company, whose portfolio includes the iconic 'Gherkin' building in London which was the scene of the charity run.
He has also been working to create ways in which New Zealand can maximise its exposure in central London and to encourage strategies and ideas that will lead to increased investment and participation in New Zealand by both foreigners and expat Kiwis.
Former winners have included equestrian champion Mark Todd, golfer Michael Campbell, former secretary general of the Commonwealth Don McKinnon and and chef Peter Gordon.
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