Wellington, New Zealand: A leader in the Wellington property sector was celebrated this evening at the Wellington Property People Awards, held at the Tākina Convention Centre. Gerard Earl, National Director of Occupier Services at Colliers, took home both the coveted Greenwood Roche Supreme Excellence Award and the Rolle Property Outstanding Leadership Award, in recognition of his leadership, dedication, and industry contributions.
Since moving to New Zealand in 2009, Gerard has swiftly become a leading figure in asset management, redevelopment, and long-term investment strategies. His expertise has been instrumental in shaping key property developments throughout the Wellington region.
The judging panel praised Gerard, stating: “Gerard was a standout nominee in this year’s awards. His passion, enthusiasm, and commitment to the property sector have made him not only a respected leader but also a mentor and advocate. He is a deserving recipient of these prestigious awards.”
The night also celebrated other local industry trailblazers:
- Shirley Yee of TSA Riley received the Beca Young Achiever of the Year Award for her resilience, passion, and contribution to both her organisation and the Wellington property community.
- Edith Boettcher of The Woolstore Group was named Catalyst Property Professional of the Year for her contribution to the Wellington commercial property landscape and success in community building. The judges commended Edith’s leadership, stating: “Her professionalism, integrity, and charitable efforts have left an indelible mark.”
- The Unispace team was the winner of the Barnes Beagley Doherr Best Team Award for their innovative work on Meridian Energy’s new offices in the Old Bank Arcade, earning them high praise for delivering one of New Zealand’s first Living Building Challenge-certified fit-outs. The judges remarked, “This achievement showcases the team’s collaboration, innovation, and commitment to sustainable building practices.”
- Paul Robinson of The Woolstore Group received the Ortus International Long Service Award for his decades of service to the property sector. A co-founder of The Woolstore Group in the mid-1990s, Paul’s leadership has guided the company through major commercial projects, including Porirua’s first Green Star-rated building. He has also been a long-standing advocate for sustainability in Wellington and a valued contributor to the Property Council’s Wellington Regional Committee.
- Nick Baty of Beca was honoured with the TSA Riley Excellence in Sustainability Award for his leadership in advancing sustainability initiatives within the built environment. The judges noted, “Nick’s dedication to sustainable outcomes reflects the growing focus on environmentally responsible practices in the industry.”
Leonie Freeman, Chief Executive of Property Council New Zealand, concluded the evening by celebrating the winners, saying: “The Wellington Property People Awards are a tribute to the individuals who are shaping the spaces where we live, work, and play. These winners represent the very best of the industry, and their achievements inspire us all to reach new heights.”
ENDS
NOTES TO THE EDITOR
About the Wellington People Property Awards
The Wellington Property People Awards celebrate the people in property, recognising excellence and innovation in our region. The Awards are open to all Wellington property professionals from across the property spectrum.
https://www.propertynz.co.nz/property-people-awards/wellington
Wellington Property People Award Winners 2024
- Greenwood Roche Supreme Excellence Award and Rolle Property Outstanding Leadership Award
Gerard Earl, Colliers - Beca Young Achiever of the Year Award
Shirley Yee, TSA Riley - Catalyst Property Professional of the Year Award
Edith Boettcher, The Woolstore Group - TSA Riley Excellence in Sustainability Award
Nick Baty, Beca - Barnes Beagley Doherr Best Team Award
Unispace
Meridian Energy - Ortus International Long Service Award
Paul Robinson, The Woolstore Group