Recognising excellence in aged care nursing

 

The ACA Nurse of the Year Award, supported by the Nursing Leadership Group, celebrates the extraordinary contributions of nurses in aged residential care. This new award aims to enhance the status and recognition of aged care nurses by honouring those who exemplify compassion, leadership, cultural responsiveness, and innovation in their practice. By acknowledging outstanding nursing professionals, we aim to inspire pride, strengthen workforce morale, and showcase excellence in aged care.

The winner will be announced at the upcoming Symposium, where they will be invited to share a short speech reflecting on their journey.

The winner will receive the award prize of:

  • Complimentary registration to the ACA Conference and Gala Dinner
  • A year-long mentorship opportunity with the Nursing Leadership Group (NLG)
  • Recognition in the ACA InTouch newsletter
  • Opportunities to participate in advocacy initiatives and contribute to sector-wide projects

Key dates

  • Nominations Open: April 11
  • Nominations Close: May 16
  • Finalists notified of outcome: June 13
  • Winner announced: Monday 21 July

Eligibility Criteria

  • Registered or enrolled nurses working in aged residential care
  • Minimum of two years’ experience
  • Employed by an ACA member organisation or an individual member

Submission requirements

To apply for the ACA Nurse of the Year Award, please complete the nomination form (self nominations and nominations on behalf of others are both eligible).

The application includes

  • A 400 word statement addressing how the nominee has contributed to nursing in aged care (e.g. exceptional care, leadership, cultural safety), a description of the impact they have made on residents, their whānau, and the wider care team, and specific examples that reflect their contribution to nursing in aged residential care.
  • For self-nominations only: A referee letter from a colleague, manager, or patient/whānau. The referee letter should include a brief statement outlining the referee’s relationship to the nominee and why they believe the nominee is deserving of the ACA Nurse of the Year Award. The letter should attest to the accuracy of the nomination and may highlight the nominee’s impact, character, and contribution to aged care.
  • Visual materials (photos or videos) are welcome, but not required.

For more information

For any outstanding questions, please contact Rabikah@nzaca.org.nz.

What we are looking for from applicants

If you or someone you know is making a real difference in aged care nursing, this award is an opportunity to gain recognition for your efforts. Strong nominations will highlight:

1. Compassionate Care & Advocacy

  • Demonstrating genuine compassion and respect in every interaction
  • Providing culturally safe care and advocating for patients and whānau

2. Leadership & Team Support

  • Uplifting team morale and fostering a positive work environment
  • Providing mentorship and contributing to workforce retention

3. Innovation in Aged Care

  • Implementing creative and practical solutions to aged care challenges
  • Enhancing resident wellbeing through innovative practices

4. Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi

  • Upholding Te Tiriti principles in daily practice
  • Building authentic partnerships with Māori and prioritising equity in healthcare outcomesn