STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL 10:15PM, FRIDAY 1 DECEMBER 2023
A pioneering property leader credited with building the Colliers brand in Aotearoa New Zealand has won the highest accolade at the Auckland Property People Awards.
Mark Synnott, who recently retired from the role of chief executive of Colliers New Zealand, was named the winner of the Rider Levett Bucknall Outstanding Leadership Award, as well as the Barker and Associates Supreme Excellence Award at the ceremony held at The Hilton tonight.
Synonymous with the Colliers brand in New Zealand, Mark was one of the firm’s first three employees when it officially expanded onto our shores in April 1989, building a 34-year career that saw him grow from office leasing manager to chief executive.
“Not only has Mark helped make Colliers a household name in New Zealand, through his exemplary leadership he has developed and encouraged hundreds of property professionals, both personally and professionally,” says judging panel representative Andrew Evans.
Meanwhile, industry stalwart Richard Goldie of architecture firm Peddlethrop was awarded the Stride Property Group Property Professional of the Year Award, with the judges saying he exemplifies the benefit of living through curiosity, research, engagement and abundant enthusiasm.
Senior project manager Milly McArthur of The Building Intelligence Group was named the Hawkins Sheree Cooney Memorial Young Achiever of the Year for her skills as a leader and mentor and commitment to best practice.
“Milly’s energy and enthusiasm have helped her excel in her chosen career, but it was her impressive depth as a project manager and leader that made her a standout candidate for this award”, says Evans.
The Auckland Zoo South East Asia Precinct Team, which included Beca, Auckland Zoo / Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, NZ Strong, Jacobs, Ignite Architects, Studio Hanson Roberts, Stevens Lawson and Harrison Grierson, was awarded the Auckland Airport Best Team Award for their delivery of the biggest and most ambitious project ever embarked on in the Zoo’s 100-year history.
“The project team’s shared passion, the unique and complex nature of the project and their commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace resulted in an outcome that exceeds expectations.”
Bayleys Real Estate founder, John Bayley, was the recipient of the Martelli McKegg Long Service Award, recognising his pioneering vision that grew the company into a prominent agency with a global footprint.
Edith Chan, a senior architect at Warren and Mahoney, was awarded the Resene Women in Property Award, with the judges commending her dedication to building capability in the industry, as well as her distinguished career.
“Edith is a strong advocate for sustainability and mentorship, with her progressive approach a legacy for those who follow in her footsteps”, says Evans.
The Ignite Architects Urban Design Award was won by Alistair Ray, principal and senior urban designer at Jasmax, who was praised for his enormously positive legacy and involvement in iconic projects that are transforming Tāmaki Makaurau.
Richard Hilder, chief financial officer at Precinct Properties, was awarded the Property Council Judges’ Choice Award, with judges commending him as a leader making a real impact on Auckland.
“Richard’s leadership and vision, both internally, and externally across the property industry has taken Precinct Properties to its leading sustainability position, with the organisation expecting to achieve net-zero carbon emissions for all buildings under its direct operational control by 2030 – an ambitious goal that demonstrates the depth of Richard’s commitment to sustainability best practice”, says Evans.
The C3 Construction Excellence in Sustainability Award was presented to the Bader Ventura Passivhaus Team, consisting of Kāinga Ora Homes and Communities, Peddlethorp Architects, Precision Construction, Oculus Engineering, Kirk Roberts Consulting and 2PIR Consulting.
Judge Andrew Evans remarked, “New Zealand should be proud to have a social housing provider that has stepped up to address the pillars of sustainability, climate, social and financial challenges. Beyond the project, the Bader Ventura Team has created something that can be benchmarked, learned from and further integrated into future housing projects.
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 Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions. At its core, 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.