Tohu Awards celebrate part-time Defence commitments

The awards, run by the Defence Employer Support Council (DESC), were hosted earlier this month at Defence House in Wellington.

The awards acknowledge the employers who support part time NZDF personnel, allowing them to attend training and development opportunities   so they may effectively supplement our Regular Force when required.

The Tohu Awards also celebrate employers who support the Limited Service Volunteer (LSV) programme and its graduates.  The LSV programme supports youth to develop skills to seek employment and make positive, long-term contributions to their community.

Congratulations to our 2025 award winners and thank you to those who nominated organisations that show their support for our people and the role they play for the New Zealand Defence Force.

Lance Corporal Sophie Toohey, Reservist of the Year, has demonstrated her capability and dedication as a junior leader, her commitment, personal resilience, and excellent maintenance of core military skills and physical fitness. In 2023 she trained alongside an ADF Reserve Mounted Rifle Regiment and was a key member of the top NZ Army Reserve team winning the Harding Cup in 2024. She went on to earn a Commander's Commendation last year for her out-standing contribution supporting the Royal Gurkha Rifles’ training efforts where she worked alongside a Gurkha unit with distinct cultural traditions, adapting her instructional style, building relationships and learning two languages to a basic level, to help break down communication barriers.

Reserve Employer of the Year

Large Employer Category

Apollo Project Ltd enables staff to dedicate significant time to military service. The organisation is flexible and supportive, providing reassurance of financial and job security during deployments and training.  Apollo Project Ltd consistently acknowledges the strengths that NZDF personnel contribute to the organisation and utilises the transferrable skills of leadership, organisational and interpersonal skills developed on NZDF training.

Reserve Employer of the Year

Small Employer Category

Mayne Wetherell create a supportive environment for Reservists through its comprehensive policies. The firm’s leave policy includes an extra fifth week of leave, allowing reservists to attend training and fulfil military commitments without compromising their civilian roles. A mentoring program ensures regular check-ins, helping Reservists balance their dual responsibilities and demonstrating genuine concern for their well-being. Mayne Wetherell recognises the transferable skills that Reservists bring, such as discipline, commitment, and leadership, fostering a culture of mutual respect and learning.

New Zealand Cadet Force Officer Employer of the Year

Giltrap Group has shown outstanding commitment to supporting its staff who serve in the New Zealand Cadet Forces. Giltrap Group demonstrate exceptional flexibility and understanding, fostering a culture of genuine encouragement and trust. The company recognises the leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills developed through Cadet Forces, providing flexibility for urgent cadet duties and actively acknowledging the contribution such service represents, through unwavering encouragement, trust, and recognition of the value of voluntary service.

Limited Service Volunteer of the Year

Michael Reynolds has shown the skills and confidence he gained from the LSV programme. He has continued his personal growth, engaged in employment, and been a role model to others. He shines as an example of the personal growth that can be achieved when positive guidance and determination are combined with hard work and perseverance.

Outstanding Contribution to the Limited Service Volunteer Programme

Miru McLean has supported the programme for over 20 years, providing a powerful and enduring influence on many trainees and is the cornerstone of cultural leadership within the programme. His commitment has contributed to a training atmosphere that builds confidence and resilience, equipping trainees with a strong sense of identity and purpose; qualities that are transferable into their personal lives and communities after graduation. Miru’s presence, guidance and passion for cultural education have made him an integral part of the LSV team and a powerful influence on the programme’s success.

Employer Recognition to the Limited Service Volunteer Programme award

Citycare - the team from City Care demonstrate significant support through their time, actions and dedication to the LSV programme. Their dedication to not only providing employment and training opportunities to the trainees through their own organisation, but to also ensuring they advocate for the value the trainees offer throughout the industry, actively reinforces a narrative that hard work, reliability and commitment can result in employment opportunities that lead to successful careers.