Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce is currently coming second in the race for nominations to be New Zealander of the Year for 2018, awards manager Glyn Taylor confirmed with SBS World News.
It was revealed earlier this month that Joyce has dual citizenship through his New Zealand-born father.
Mr Taylor said Joyce's eligibility for the awards will be assessed after nominations close on September 18.
The judging panel will evaluate the nominations and a shortlist of 10 will be announced in December.
Ms Taylor said nominations came from all fields of achievement and community service.
A press release from the event organisers (SBS) Source: SBS
"It's not unusual for people of the moment to attract significant support during the public nominations period," he earlier told the NZ Herald.
Former Green Party-co-leader Metiria Turei has the highest number of nominations.
Previous winners include Taika Watiti, Richie McCaw and Dame Anne Salmond.
Comment was sought from Mr Joyce's office.
