A year after the devastating earthquake that struck Christchurch, the city held a memorial service and awarded on Wednesday the heroes who selflessly helped the community in various meaningful ways.

There are hundreds of stories of heroism and bravery to tell in Christchurch, according to Christchurch mayor Bob Parker, who was presented with the Royal Humane Society gold medal after Wednesday's memorial service in North Hagley Park.

Individuals who risked their lives to save others were also honored after the memorial service.

Chris Nutsford, who climbed onto the collapsed PGC building while there were still aftershocks had put his life in harm's way to rescue three women trapped on the third floor. He was among one of those recognized for acts of heroism.

Also recognized was Erwin Polczak who risked his own life to free four people trapped under rubble.

After the quake, some people went out of their way to help the victims adjust and recover from the trauma brought about by the quakes.

Melanie Hillier organised over 200 a meals a day from her Aranui home using a generator, as she had no power or water, APNZ reported.

She also distributed second-hand clothing and furniture to those in need and has helped to give neighbourhood children a 'quake-escape' to Hanmer Springs and Little River.

Aucklander Mark Skelton built a self-sufficient truck that provided up to 500 showers a day for residents without power or water.

Mr. Parker also shared the story of a council worker who was killed by an aftershock while he was saving a woman trapped in rubble.

The Christchurch Social Sector Awards ceremony was held at the Chateau on the Park after the Memorial Service today.

Forum spokesman Terry Donaldson said the manner in which the community sector responded to the earthquakes and its effects on the lives of Christchurch residents deserves to be acknowledged.

Prime minister John Key also paid tribute to the rescuers, and said the destruction of the earthquake had sparked unparalleled bravery from many Cantabrians.

Forty-one government-funded community groups were also recognised for their efforts in supporting families, the community and each other a year on since the earthquakes.

The New Zealand Herald has a full list of Earthquake Award recipients.