Honouring the 2026 New Zealander of the Year Award Winners

Celebrating Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year 2026 | Tréology once again handcrafts sustainable trophies | Connecting people to nature

“The most prestigious national award honouring people for their contribution to the wellbeing of our country. Proven, inspirational and passionate, these are the people that New Zealand is proud to call their own.”

— NZer of the Year Awards

Last night, Aotearoa gathered at the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards Gala at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland to honour individuals and organisations whose leadership, service and vision continue to shape the country. The 2026 awards were presented on Thursday 19 March 2026 across seven award categories, with an additional Legacy Award also recognised.

For Tréology, it was a privilege to once again craft the trophies for this occasion. These awards represent more than achievement alone. They mark contribution, courage, innovation and care for community, values reflected in the stories of each recipient recognised on the night.

Recognising the wider field of finalists

Alongside the winners, the awards also recognised finalists from across Aotearoa whose work represents the depth of talent, generosity and leadership present in communities throughout the country.

For us, being trusted to create the trophies again this year is something we are deeply proud of. To contribute, in a small way, to an evening that celebrates such extraordinary New Zealanders is always meaningful. Each piece is made with care, knowing it will come to stand alongside a story of service, impact and lasting contribution.

Congratulations to all 2026 winners, finalists and organisers for a remarkable evening of recognition and celebration.

2026 New Zealander of the Year Award Winners

Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year – Sir Rod Drury
Recognised with the supreme award, Sir Rod Drury was named the 2026 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year.

Go Media Young New Zealander of the Year – Lucy Blakiston
Lucy Blakiston was honoured as the 2026 Young New Zealander of the Year.

Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year – Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr were recognised for their contribution as the 2026 Senior New Zealanders of the Year.

2degrees New Zealand Innovator of the Year – Craig Piggott
Craig Piggott received the 2026 Innovator of the Year award.

Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu New Zealand Sustainability Leader of the Year – Mike Casey
Mike Casey was named the 2026 Sustainability Leader of the Year.

Mitre 10 New Zealand Community of the Year – Safeguarding Children Initiative
The Safeguarding Children Initiative was recognised as the 2026 Community of the Year.

Tower New Zealand Local Hero of the Year – Māhera Maihi
Māhera Maihi received the 2026 Local Hero of the Year award.

Fisher Funds New Zealand Legacy Award – Dame Lynley Dodd
Dame Lynley Dodd was honoured with the 2026 New Zealand Legacy Award.