Awards recognise women shaping the future of construction 

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has recognised women from across New Zealand’s construction sector for their leadership, innovation and professional excellence at its 2026 Excellence Awards  

The awards on 24 July recognised achievement across 10 categories, spanning trades, operational management, health and safety, education, organisational excellence and leadership. Finalists included apprentices, students, site-based professionals, operational managers and senior industry leaders. 

NAWIC President Kirsty Hopewell said the awards highlighted the breadth of talent across the industry. 

“Every finalist has demonstrated exceptional commitment to their profession, their colleagues and the future of construction. They are not only delivering outstanding work – they are opening doors for others, challenging traditional thinking and helping create a sector where more women can thrive.” 

The awards formed the centrepiece of NAWIC New Zealand’s 30 Years of Impact celebrations, which also included the Building Influence Conference and a 30-Year Cocktail Celebration. NAWIC said the events reflected the progress made over the past three decades and the opportunities that remain to improve diversity across the construction sector. 

Award winners 

The Helen Tippett Changemaker Award, named after one of New Zealand’s pioneering engineers, was presented to Rebecca Mehrtens – Energy and Industrial Leader at Aurecon and Chair at Ngākau Hihiko – Wāhine in Energy. 

“Throughout her career, she has consistently looked beyond her own role to create lasting change, establishing and leading initiatives that build more inclusive workplaces, develop future leaders, and strengthen the industry’s workforce,” said NAWIC’s judges. 

The award recognises leadership in advancing opportunities for women across the energy and construction sectors through advocacy, mentoring and national leadership initiatives. 

Emerging professionals also featured prominently among this year’s recipients. Laura Torres-Rowe (Apprentice at LT McGuiness) received the Apprentice Excellence Award for her technical ability, leadership and commitment to continuous learning, while Emily Hall (Masters in Architecture student at Victoria University of Wellington and Architectural Assistant at Stepleton Elliott) was recognised with the Student Excellence Award for combining academic achievement with a focus on sustainability, research and mentoring future construction professionals. 

Leadership awards recognised contributions across both office and site-based roles. Kristy Jones (Sustainability Manager, Cook Brothers Construction) received the Outstanding Leader – Office Award for her work advancing sustainability across the sector, while Alex Hazledine (Principal Counsel at Beca) was recognised with the Excellence in Construction Organisation – Office Award for strengthening legal practice through leadership, collaboration and professional development. Rising Star awards went to Stella Ellia (Learning and Development Facilitator at Fulton Hogan) and Daenah Costales (Site Engineer at McConnell Dowell) in recognition of their leadership potential, innovation and commitment to supporting others. 

Site-based leadership was also recognised, with Ella Wilson (who went from apprentice to Allied Concrete Plant Manager in just five years) receiving the Wahine Toa Tradeswoman Award, Charlotte Valentine-Ah Tune, Contract Manager at Ventia, winning Excellence in Site Operational Management, and Natalie Griffiths, Area Health, Safety and Environmental Manager at Brian Perry Civil recognised for Excellence in Health, Safety & Wellbeing.  

Hopewell said the achievements of this year’s winners demonstrated the impact women continue to make across the industry. 

“Behind every award is a story of determination, resilience and leadership. These women are delivering projects, leading teams, improving safety, mentoring others and driving meaningful change across our sector. Their success inspires the next generation and demonstrates the incredible contribution women are making to construction every day.”