2025 NAWIC Excellence Awards
Celebrating Women Building New Zealand’s Future
The 2025 NAWIC Excellence Awards, held in partnership with Naylor Love, were nothing short of inspiring —bringing together over 600 people to celebrate the women who are shaping the future of construction in Aotearoa New Zealand. From apprentices and students to site leaders and industry trailblazers, this year’s awards recognised the remarkable achievements of wāhine across the sector—those breaking barriers, lifting others, and redefining what’s possible.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Next year marks 30 years of NAWIC in Aotearoa New Zealand, and we’re planning something truly special to honour this incredible milestone. Stay tuned — exciting announcements coming later this year.
Congratulations to our Awards Recipients
“This year’s winners and finalists are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when talent, determination, and opportunity come together. They are shaping a more inclusive and innovative future for our sector.”
— Colleen Upton, NAWIC President
Photographer: Smoke Photography, Auckland
Helen Tippett Award
Carrying the legacy of a pioneer—while paving new paths for others
Kimalan Phelan
SPECIAL MERIT
Wahine Toa Tradeswoman of the Year Award
A master of her trade—and a role model for the next generation
Sam Burrow
WINNER
Chelsea Roper
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Joy Godding
SPECIAL MERIT
Outstanding Leader of the Year - Office Award
She doesn’t just lead—she lifts others as she climbs
Arden Hermans
WINNER
Ida Taefu (accepted on behalf)
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Nadia Ducrot
SPECIAL MERIT
Outstanding Leader of the Year - Site Award
She leads from the front—on site and in her community
Marie Almandoz
WINNER
Kelsey Telford
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Excellence In Construction Organisation - Office Award
Every great build needs a powerhouse behind the scenes
Amanda Byrne
WINNER
Tania Rakena (accepted on behalf)
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Sarah Cotter
SPECIAL MERIT
Excellence In Site Operational Management - Site or Field Award
Leading from the ground up—with purpose, precision, and heart
Georgia Robinson
WINNER
Roslyn Strowger
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Rising Star - Office Award
From the desk to the wider industry—she’s already making her mark
Wendy Weng
WINNER
Josette Xu
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Rising Star - Site Award
Leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about impact
Haley Watts
WINNER
Rhiannon Lewis
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Achievement in Health, Safety, Wellbeing and Environment Award
Because safety isn’t just a rule — it’s a culture
Juana West
WINNER
Arianna Pahuru
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Student Excellence Award
Committed, curious, and already making her mark
Chelsea Gallager
WINNER
Rachel Duncan
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Apprentice Excellence Award
She’s building more than just structures — she’s building her future
Maggie Higgins
WINNER
Greer Muir
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Specialist Plant & Machinery Operators Excellence Award
From cranes to earthmovers, she makes it look effortless
Dayna Bailey
WINNER
Nat Walker
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Finalist Group Photo
“This year’s winners and finalists are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when talent, determination, and opportunity come together. They are shaping a more inclusive and innovative future for our sector.” - Colleen Upton NAWIC President
Thank you to our Awards Partner
Thank you to our Category Sponsors
Thank you to our Supporters
