from Wairarapa Times-Age (dated 02dec10)

A Wairarapa woman searching for a cure for spinal injuries is in the reckoning to be crowned New Zealander of the Year.

Catriona Williams is one of 10 semi-finalists nominated for the prestigious award, set to be named early next year.

A former national showjumping representative, Mrs Williams became a tetraplegic after breaking her neck in a fall at a cross-country riding event in Hamilton in 2002.

In 2005 she founded the CatWalk Trust, an organisation which raises money to find a cure for spinal injuries.

She said the nomination had come as a surprise, and was as much a credit to her colleagues at the trust as to her.

"I feel very humbled that someone's taken the time to fill in the nomination.

"I have been very lucky to have an amazing team around me."

She said the current New Zealander of the Year, a scientist and social entrepreneur, was an inspiration.

"You look at Ray Avery who won it last year, and he is the most incredible person in all senses of the word."

Last month she completed the New York marathon using a handcycle, completing the famous 42km course in 4h 5m.

Competing with her were 24 others, including New Zealand equestrian representative Mark Todd, and between them they managed to raise $285,000.

She said she will keep raising money until a cure for paralysis and spinal injuries is found, so she can "get these legs working again".

Others nominated for the accolade include scientists, philanthropists, volunteers and a climate change campaigner.

Other awards up for grabs include Community of the Year, young New Zealander of the Year, and Senior of the Year.

Three finalists will be chosen from each category on December 13, with the winners announced at a gala awards dinner in Auckland on February 2 next year.