This week is National Volunteer Week – a time to celebrate, support, and encourage the incredible contributions of volunteers in our communities. It’s also the perfect moment to announce our June Te Tohu Maimoa award winners! While recipients don’t have to be volunteers, many are – and their efforts reflect the dedication we see from people across Aotearoa who give their time and energy to improving the lives of animals.
Twice a year, Companion Animals New Zealand recognises outstanding individuals through Te Tohu Maimoa. These awards highlight those who go above and beyond to improve the lives of companion animals in Aotearoa. Maimoa, as a verb means 'to cherish or care for' and as a noun means 'companion animal'. Te Tohu is te reo for 'award'.
Our June 2025 recipients have demonstrated exceptional commitment to animal welfare through education, community service, and compassionate care.
Maria Alomajan (Auckland) – Owner, Canine by Nature
Awarded for: Commitment to education and canine behaviour training
Maria Alomajan has shown unwavering dedication to improving canine welfare through education - locally and globally. As the owner of Canine by Nature, Maria integrates ethical, evidence-based behaviour training into every aspect of her work. Her belief in agency for all animals, force-free approaches, and empathetic dialogue drives her mission to empower both pets and people.
Her impact spans continents. A two-part lecture series for vet nurses through NZVNA and Vet Education reached over 1,300 participants worldwide, helping professionals better support puppies and their guardians. Maria also provides expert behavioural content for PD Insurance and DOC’s Lead the Way programme - creating practical, accessible media that raises awareness of dog behaviour and care.
Maria continues to mentor others in the field, offering guidance and emotional support within the behaviour community. Her work is a powerful example of how education can uplift both animal welfare standards and the people who care for our pets.
Rukmini (Mini) (Manawatū) – Owner, Māmā Mini's
Awarded for: Tireless community rescue and support work
Known affectionately as "Mini", Rukmini is a tireless force for good in the Manawatū animal welfare community. Whether responding to calls about found animals, rescuing pets or offering practical support to those struggling to care for their companions, Mini is always ready to help.
She works closely with local services offering vital care for abused and neglected animals. Her initiatives – such as food drives for pet guardians in need and low-cost microchipping events – break down barriers to responsible pet care and provide dignity to both pets and people.
Mini’s community describes her as strong, caring, generous – and a true rescue warrior.
Charlotte Koppes (Bromley, South Island) – DogWatch
Awarded for: Dedication to enhancing foster environments and mentorship
At DogWatch in Christchurch, Charlotte Koppes has transformed foster care through innovation, compassion, and tireless mentorship. Her work has directly improved neonatal care, in-shelter microchipping practices, and outcomes for foster placements.
Charlotte goes out of her way to support new foster carers – offering one-on-one guidance and emotional support to ensure each placement succeeds. Her training and encouragement have helped build a strong, resilient foster network that provides vulnerable animals with the best start in life.
Charlotte uplifts those around her, while her thoughtful, hands-on support reflects deep respect and compassion. From shelter innovation to nurturing community, Charlotte’s impact is both measurable and deeply felt.
Congratulations to all of our June 2025 Te Tohu Maimoa recipients.
“It’s an honour to celebrate the mahi of Maria, Mini, and Charlotte – three remarkable individuals whose compassion and commitment embody the very essence of Te Tohu Maimoa. Their work reminds us that real change happens when care, knowledge and community come together. We’re so grateful for the difference you’re making for animals and people alike – ngā mihi nui for all that you do.”
To learn more about the awards and how to nominate someone, visit: https://www.companionanimals.nz/maimoa