Auckland, 13 June 2025: Property Council New Zealand is honoured to announce Andrew Evans as the recipient of the 2025 Member Laureate Award, the organisation’s highest individual accolade, presented at the prestigious Property Council New Zealand Rider Levett Bucknall Property Industry Awards.
This award recognises individuals who have demonstrated unparalleled service, outstanding leadership, and a lasting impact on both the property sector and Property Council New Zealand. With a career spanning more than four decades, Andrew Evans embodies these values through a legacy of strategic insight, governance excellence, and sector-wide collaboration.
Andrew began his career as a commercial property valuer, working in Auckland and Wellington before transitioning into real estate funds management. Over the past 18 years, he has served as a highly respected independent director, known for his deep sector knowledge and ability to navigate complex property challenges. His governance expertise spans multiple boards including Argosy Property Limited, Vital Healthcare Property Trust, and Holmes Group. He currently chairs Infinity Investment Group and Accessible Properties NZ, and is Deputy Chair of Trust Investments Management.
Evans’ enduring connection with Property Council is marked by service, mentorship, and a vision for a stronger, more inclusive industry. As National President from 2002 to 2004, he championed key initiatives in advocacy and member engagement, setting the foundation for modern-day collaboration within the organisation. Since 2017, he has served as Chief Judge of the Property Industry Awards, where his leadership has elevated the awards’ credibility and rigor. He also enters his 10th year on the Auckland People in Property Awards judging panel, a role he describes as “a meaningful way to give back by recognising excellence and leadership.”
Leonie Freeman, Chief Executive of Property Council New Zealand, says Evans’ contribution is both profound and far-reaching:
“Andrew’s impact on our organisation and the wider industry cannot be overstated. He leads with humility, clarity, and a genuine passion for people. His strategic thinking, coupled with an unwavering commitment to good governance and professional standards, has helped shape the fabric of our industry.”
A Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Directors and Fellow of the Property Institute of New Zealand, Andrew also served on the Institute of Directors’ Auckland Branch committee for eight years and was a Member of the Land Valuation Tribunal for a decade. His contributions extend beyond boardrooms, offering mentorship to emerging leaders and advocating for smarter, more equitable industry practices.
Now based in Gisborne, Andrew remains deeply committed to the sector, continuing to serve on multiple boards across the country.”
Reflecting on the award, Evans shared:
“This is an incredible honour, and one I gratefully accept. Any success I’ve had is due to the incredible people I’ve worked alongside. Property may be about buildings, but ultimately, it’s people who shape the communities we all value. That’s always been the part I’ve loved the most.”
The Member Laureate is awarded through a rigorous nomination and evaluation process, recognising exceptional leadership, vision, and enduring service to both the Property Council and New Zealand’s property sector.
ENDS