STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL 10:00PM, FRIDAY 24 NOVEMBER 2023
One of the South Island property industry’s standout young achievers was celebrated by over 300 guests at tonight’s South Island Property People Awards, as Andrew Lapsley, director and owner of Verve Projects took home both the Greenwood Roche Young Achiever of the Year Award and the Property Council Supreme Excellence Award.
In a unanimous decision, judges commended Andrew’s credentials as a construction professional and skills as a project manager and leader.
Judging panel representative, Graeme McDonald says, “A capable leader, Andrew has sought opportunities to mentor and guide his team, building people alongside the business. His willingness to embrace new technologies and innovate to ensure the Verve team works smarter rather than harder is a testament to his passion for continuous improvement and the property sector.
“Andrew’s proven success and huge aspirations serve as an inspiration to those who wish to climb the property ladder. Andrew has made a commitment to improve the construction industry in the South Island through every project he touches.”
Other big winners on the night include the Christ Church Cathedral Stabilisation Team, consisting of the Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Project, Warren and Mahoney, Naylor Love, Rawlinsons and Holmes Consulting, which was awarded the coveted Hawkins Best Team Award.
The judges recognised the level of difficulty, extraordinary coordination, and individual expertise of each of the key stakeholders in delivering this phase of the project, saying “the Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Project is one of the most complex and arguably most important projects in the city’s history. Collaborative governance, which involved detailed scrutiny by executive teams, as well as meticulous planning and coordination between all parties was crucial in making this complex project a success”.
Peter Marshall, principal and former managing director of architecture firm Warren and Mahoney, was recognised for his 40+ year contribution to the local industry, being awarded the Property Council Long Service Award.
“Peter’s consummate professionalism as well as his interest in supporting the development of the careers of so many of his colleagues has made a lasting contribution to the industry in New Zealand”, says McDonald.
Founder of Tuatara Structures, Jordan Frizzell, was named the GHD Property Professional of the Year, with the judges crediting him as the consummate property professional saying, “Jordan’s drive, enthusiasm and energy are infectious. He has made an enormous contribution as a leader in the South Island property community”.
The Resene Urban Design Award was presented to the Pūtahi Whakatetonga South Frame Project Team, consisting of Rau Paenga, AECOM, Jasmax, LandLAB and Matapōpore, which was commended for revitalising an area of Central Christchurch that had floundered post-earthquakes, transforming it from empty lots and car yards into a functional 20,000 sqm space that enhances the community.
“The Pūtahi Whakatetonga South Frame Project Team has created a public space that both connects the city and acts as a catalyst for development, providing certainty in the form of a mixed-use precinct spanning seven city blocks.”
Alexandra Smith, an associate at Warren and Mahoney’ received the Southbase Construction Excellence in Sustainability Award for her work on the Te Huhi Raupō healthcare facility.
“Alexandra’s leadership has been instrumental in driving and implementing this innovative design. Her passion for sustainability and aptitude in achieving remarkable results have helped create a building that shifts expectations of what is possible in healthcare architecture.”
Meanwhile, the Anderson Lloyd Judges Choice Award was presented to the New Brighton Surf Lifesaving Club Project Team, consisting of South by Southeast, Snohetta, and the New Brighton Surf Lifesaving Club Build Committee.
The Judges were struck by the project team’s commitment to collaboration with the local community, resulting in “a fine building that pays homage to the Club’s rich history while very much looking to the future”.
Property Council chief executive Leonie Freeman says “it is a great pleasure to be able to celebrate and recognise the people behind the local projects and developments in the South Island. Property is about creating spaces for people and communities to live work and play, which is even more reason to celebrate these dedicated property professionals who are shaping our regions, one project at a time.”
ENDS.
For all supporting images, click here.
Please note the photographer credits as noted on each image.