The landscape of property and urban development in Aotearoa is constantly evolving — driven not only by buildings and infrastructure but by the people behind them. In recognition of this, the 2025 Property People Awards will introduce two refreshed categories designed to honour those at the forefront of change: the City Shaper Award and the Sustainability Champion Award.
These additions reflect the growing importance of visionary leadership, environmental responsibility, and community-focused development in today’s property sector. Both awards celebrate individuals or teams who are not just meeting expectations — they are redefining what’s possible.
City Shaper Award: Honouring the Changemakers Behind Great Cities
Great cities aren’t built by chance — they’re shaped by passionate people with bold ideas and the courage to lead. The new City Shaper Award will recognise those whose work is transforming the urban environment in ways that are inclusive, vibrant, and resilient.
From urban planners and architects to policymakers and developers, this category is open to any individual or team whose influence has helped reshape how our cities function and feel. What sets these nominees apart is their commitment to collaboration, cultural responsiveness, and long-term impact.
“This award is for the changemakers,” says Property Council Chief Executive Leonie Freeman. “It’s for the people who roll up their sleeves and challenge the status quo to build places that work better for everyone — not just today, but for generations to come.”
Nominees will have demonstrated:
- Meaningful change in urban environments with lasting community benefits
- Strategic thinking and innovation in planning, design, or development — regardless of whether a project is built or still on the drawing board
- A values-led approach that embeds collaboration, inclusivity, and cultural understanding into their work
- Contributions that influence the broader practice of city-making in Aotearoa
Whether they’re breathing new life into a neglected part of town, leading public-private partnerships, or advocating for better urban outcomes through policy, City Shaper nominees are united by their belief that great cities start with great people.
This award category is available in Auckland, Central and the South Island.
Sustainability Champion Award: Celebrating Environmental Leadership in Action
As climate change intensifies and expectations shift, sustainability in the built environment has never been more crucial. The Sustainability Champion Award shines a spotlight on the individuals or teams who are turning this challenge into opportunity — driving real change within the property industry.
This award recognises not just technical expertise, but leadership. It honours those who have embedded sustainability into the DNA of their projects, policies, or company culture — often going above and beyond what’s required to lead by example and inspire others.
“Sustainability isn’t a box to tick; it’s a mindset and a movement,” says Freeman. “This award is about celebrating the people who are making that shift happen — who are challenging norms, shifting behaviours, and influencing others to think differently about their environmental impact.”
Nominees for the Sustainability Champion Award will be assessed on their:
- Visionary leadership and commitment to sustainable property practices
- Measurable outcomes through practical, innovative, and scalable initiatives
- Industry and community influence — inspiring action beyond their immediate circle
- Collaborative approach to building a more resilient and responsible sector
The initiatives may be operational, strategic, or cultural in nature, and they may still be in progress — what matters is the intent, the people-led change, and the long-term influence on the industry.
This award category is available in Auckland, Central and Wellington.
Celebrating the People Powering Progress
The introduction of the City Shaper and Sustainability Champion awards reflects a broader shift in the industry — a growing recognition that progress is not just about what we build, but how and why we build it.
As Freeman puts it: “The future of property lies in the hands of those who dare to lead differently. These new awards are our way of celebrating those leaders — the visionaries, collaborators, and champions of change — who are shaping a better tomorrow.”
Nominations for all Property People Award categories are now open. If you know someone making waves in urban transformation or sustainability, now’s the time to shine a light on their incredible work.
Nominate Now!
