Auckland, New Zealand: The team behind Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland’s B201 Redevelopment Project has been awarded the top accolade at the prestigious Auckland Property People Awards, held tonight at the Hilton in Auckland. This groundbreaking project, which transformed a 50-year-old Human Sciences Building into a cutting-edge 26,500m² educational space, was celebrated for its exceptional collaboration, commitment to innovation and unrelenting focus on achieving a strong sustainability outcome.
At the height of the project, over 350 professionals worked together under the leadership of the University, Precon, Jasmax, Beca, BBD, Hawkins, Haumi, and mana whenua Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. The judges praised the team for achieving the often-stated goal of a collaborative culture involving all of the project disciplines to deliver a world class outcome, while overcoming the significant challenges of COVID-19 lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, and extreme weather events. The project secured both the Auckland Airport Best Team Award and the Barker and Associates Supreme Excellence Award.
“The diverse team faced immense hurdles yet delivered an extraordinary result. Their approach exemplified a highly team-focused consultative approach, resilience and cooperation, setting a new benchmark for the industry,” said judge Andrew Evans.
Other highlights of the night included Mike Hanson of RDT Pacific receiving the Rider Levett Bucknall Outstanding Leadership Award for his calm, insightful leadership and his dedication to fostering a culture of collaboration. Development manager Daniel Whittaker from Russell Property Group was named the Hawkins Sheree Cooney Memorial Young Achiever of the Year, with judges commending his commitment to the community and his efforts to mentor emerging talent.
“Daniel’s passion for both personal growth and giving back to the industry is exemplary. From his early work with World Vision New Zealand to his roles with Keystone Trust and Property Council New Zealand, he consistently embodies the spirit of leadership and community,” said Evans.
Severin Soder of Architectus took home the Ignite Architects Urban Design Award for his two-decade contribution to sustainable, people-focused urban design. Judges highlighted his role in shaping Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter transformation and his long-standing impact on the city’s urban landscape.
The Martelli McKegg Long Service Award was presented to Dan Ashby, former Icon director, honouring his remarkable 45-year legacy in the property sector. A true industry titan, Dan’s integrity and relentless commitment have left a lasting impact, driving positive change across the industry. For over two decades, he has been a steadfast supporter of the Property Council and played a pivotal role in founding Mates in Construction, a groundbreaking charity dedicated to suicide prevention in the construction industry. His contributions continue to shape a better, safer future for all.
Meanwhile, Kelly Hodder, Retail Leasing and Commercial Manager at Auckland Airport won the Pragmatix Women in Property Award for her expertise in managing an expansive portfolio, including 250 retail sites and the new 24,000m² Mānawa Bay development.
“Kelly’s work behind the scenes is nothing short of remarkable. She’s a quiet achiever who handles complex, large-scale projects with unmatched expertise,” said Evans.
Sustainability leader Saatyesh Bhana of Argosy was honoured with the C3 Construction Excellence in Sustainability Award for his leadership in reducing the property sector’s carbon footprint, while Tiri Raumati-Greenhalgh, Managing Director of Charlton Property Management, received the Property Council Judges’ Choice Award for her inspiring journey from personal assistant to company owner.
Finally, Simone Sharp of Rubix was celebrated with the Envelope Property Professional Award for her transformative leadership across health and infrastructure projects, and her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the sector.
Property Council Chief Executive Leonie Freeman said: “The Auckland Property People Awards are a chance to shine a spotlight on the people who are shaping the spaces we live, work, and play in. These winners embody the very best of the industry, and their achievements inspire us all.”
ENDS
NOTES TO THE EDITOR
About the Auckland People Property Awards
The Auckland Property People Awards celebrate the people in property, recognising excellence and innovation in our region. The Awards are open to all Auckland property professionals from throughout the property spectrum.
https://www.propertynz.co.nz/property-people-awards/auckland
Auckland Property People Award Winners 2024
- Barker & Associates Supreme Excellence Award and Auckland Airport Best Team Award B201 Redevelopment Project Team
BBD, Beca, Haumi, Hawkins, Jasmax, Precon, Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland - Hawkins Sheree Cooney Memorial Young Achiever of the Year Award
Daniel Whittaker, Russell Property Group - Rider Levett Bucknall Outstanding Leadership Award
Mike Hanson, RDT Pacific - Ignite Architects Urban Design Award
Severin Soder, Architectus - Pragmatix Women in Property Award
Kelly Hodder, Auckland International Airport - Envelope Property Professional of the Year Award
Simone Sharp, Rubix - C3 Construction Excellence in Sustainability Award
Saatyesh Bhana, Argosy - Property Council Judges’ Choice Award
Tiri Raumati-Greenhalgh, Charlton Property Management - Martelli McKegg Long Service Award
Dan Ashby, Icon