2025 Concrete Construction Awards
Category Winners

The Concrete Construction Awards produced winners and Highly Commended recipients across nine categories for projects and initiatives that demonstrate outstanding concrete achievement.

HOLCIM NZ - EXCELLENCE FOR ARCHITECTURAL CONCRETE (MONTE CRAVEN AWARD)

WINNER - Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa, Rotorua

Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa, Rotorua.

Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa in Rotorua is a luxury wellness facility shaped by Ngāti Whakaue values and geothermal context. Concrete was essential to the design - providing structural durability, aesthetic richness, and material authenticity. Its strength and resilience made it ideal for the site’s corrosive environment and long-term performance needs.

The judges were impressed by the outstanding architectural expression achieved through concrete in this culturally significant project. Also praised was the close collaboration between architects, engineers, and suppliers in delivering bespoke precast and in-situ elements. Of note was the use of high-performance concrete to meet the extreme durability demands of Rotorua’s geothermal environment. With longevity a key requirement for this generational development, concrete was expertly specified and detailed to ensure structural resilience, environmental resistance, and enduring cultural value.

Project Team.
RCG Architects, Pukeroa Lakefront Holdings, Firth Industries, WSP NZ, Hawkins Construction, Nauhria Precast, Stevenson Concrete, Natural Habitats, and Boffa Miskell.

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Sylvia Park Build-To-Rent (BTR) Architectural In-Situ Shear Walls, Auckland

Sylvia Park Build-To-Rent (BTR) Architectural In-Situ Shear Walls, Auckland.

Dominion Constructors delivered two 21.7-metre-high in-situ architectural shear walls for the Sylvia Park build-to-rent development in Auckland. The walls featured a ribbed pattern with 100mm projections, precisely aligned with the adjacent precast façade, requiring expert coordination across formwork design, structural detailing, and jump-form construction.

The judges applauded the architectural quality of these large in-situ concrete walls, which form a striking feature of the development. Dominion’s use of custom formwork, including laser-cut moulds and a bespoke tremie pipe, delivered precise detailing and high-quality concrete placement. Also praised was the coordination of design, engineering, and construction expertise, which aligned structural and aesthetic goals while eliminating the need for additional cladding - showcasing both design ingenuity and construction efficiency.

Project Team.
Dominion Constructors, Kiwi Property Group, Holmes Group, Naylor Love and Ashton Mitchell Architects.

POWERPAC GROUP (GROUTSNOUT) - EXCELLENCE IN CONCRETE INFRASTRUCTURE AWARD

WINNER - Te Ara Tupua, Wellington

Te Ara Tupua, Wellington.

Te Ara Tupua is a transformational coastal pathway linking Wellington and Lower Hutt. Through innovative use of concrete - including XBlocPlus® armour units, ECOncrete® tidal pools, and enhanced reef structures - the project protects vital infrastructure, enhances marine habitats, and expresses mana whenua values. It sets a new benchmark for sustainable, resilient coastal design in Aotearoa.

The judges were impressed by the project’s ambitious scope and sophisticated use of concrete to address seismic and environmental challenges. Te Ara Tupua demonstrates how tailored concrete solutions can reduce carbon, shorten construction timeframes, and enhance habitat complexity. From seismic-tested XBlocPlus® revetments to precast ecological features and submerged reef structures, this project redefines what low-carbon, culturally grounded infrastructure can achieve. It stands as a national exemplar of concrete’s potential to serve communities, nature, and future generations.

Project Team.
Te Ara Tupua Alliance, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Downer NZ, HEB Construction, Tonkin + Taylor, Brian Perry Civil and Preco Precast Concrete.

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Tauhara Geothermal Power Plant, Taupō

Tauhara Geothermal Power Plant, Taupō.

Contact Energy’s 174 MW Tauhara Geothermal Power Plant near Taupō supplies 3.5% of New Zealand’s electricity demand using sustainable geothermal energy. Concrete was central to the plant’s resilient and efficient design, with approximately 10,000 cubic metres used in turbine foundations, pipe supports, and other critical infrastructure - engineered for durability in a highly aggressive geothermal environment.

The panel commended the project for its outstanding use of concrete to deliver low-carbon, climate-resilient infrastructure. Facing seismic, geotechnical, and geothermal challenges, the team achieved durable, high-performance outcomes through smart mix design, detailing, and modular construction. Replacing 30% of cement with fly ash reduced embodied carbon, while the robust concrete structures ensure long-term reliability and lower maintenance. The project demonstrates how concrete can meet complex environmental, structural, and sustainability demands in critical infrastructure delivery.

Project Team.
Beca, Contact Energy Limited (CEL), Naylor Love, Firth Industries, Allied Concrete, CLL Service & Solutions, Contech, Fuji Electric, Sumitomo Corporation.

HIGHLY COMMENDED - SH94 Homer Tunnel Avalanche Shelter, Fiordland

SH94 Homer Tunnel Avalanche Shelter, Fiordland.

To improve resilience on SH94 Milford Road, NZTA Waka Kotahi commissioned a replacement avalanche shelter at the Homer Tunnel. Constructed in a remote, high-risk alpine environment, the shelter uses robust precast concrete to withstand extreme avalanche, seismic, and rockfall forces, while blending into the Fiordland National Park landscape.

The judges were impressed by the project’s outstanding response to resilience and environmental challenges in a UNESCO World Heritage site. Concrete was pivotal - offering structural strength, seismic robustness, and low maintenance durability in a remote and hazardous location. Precast construction reduced time on site, lowering carbon emissions and minimising environmental disruption. Innovative detailing, digital modelling, and cultural design integration showcased concrete’s versatility in delivering infrastructure that is not only safer and stronger, but also sensitive to its surroundings.

Project Team.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Downer NZ, WSP NZ and McIntosh Precast.

HIGGINS CONCRETE - EXCELLENCE IN CONCRETE FOR THE COMMUNITY

WINNER - Refurbishment and Expansion of Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, Whanganui

Refurbishment and Expansion of Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, Whanganui.

The refurbishment and seismic strengthening of Whanganui’s heritage-listed Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery has transformed a nationally significant building into a world-class facility. Through innovative and concealed concrete interventions, the project extends the structure’s life, preserves architectural integrity, and re-establishes the gallery as a cultural treasure for the community and Aotearoa.

The judges praised the project’s outstanding use of concrete to deliver a discreet yet highly effective seismic strengthening solution within a sensitive heritage context. Over 300 stainless steel post-tensioned bars, new composite diaphragms, and meticulously executed concrete tie beams were employed to enhance resilience while maintaining architectural elegance. The result is a restored gallery that honours its past and safeguards its future - an exemplar of how concrete can respectfully modernise historic infrastructure, meet seismic standards, and deliver enduring value for the community and the nation.

Project Team.
Clendon Burns & Park, Sarjeant Gallery Trust, Warren & Mahoney, McMillan & Lockwood and Contech.

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Wi Neera Walkway, Raglan

Wi Neera Walkway, Raglan.

The Wi Neera Walkway in Raglan transforms a coastal path into an inclusive, resilient community asset. Using in-situ concrete, the project strengthens an 80-year-old seawall, preserves historic pohutukawa, and weaves a durable, accessible structure into the natural and cultural landscape - enhancing safety, recreation, and connectivity along Raglan’s iconic shoreline.

The judges commended this project for its thoughtful integration of concrete in a sensitive coastal environment. The team overcame tidal, environmental, and structural challenges through innovative in-situ techniques, adaptive reuse, and durable design. Fly ash reduced embodied carbon, while cantilevered elements protected native trees. The result is a graceful, long-lasting structure that honours heritage and improves public access. The Wi Neera Walkway exemplifies how concrete can enrich communities - enhancing safety, promoting active transport, and celebrating place through clever, site-specific design.

Project Team.
StructureTech, Contech, MSC Consulting Engineers and Waikato District Council.

FIRTH INDUSTRIES - EXCELLENCE IN COMMERCIAL CONCRETE

WINNER - Mānawa Bay, Auckland International Airport

Mānawa Bay, Auckland International Airport.

Mānawa Bay at Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s largest premium outlet shopping destination, integrating over 36,000 m² of concrete flooring and 2,300 m² of low-carbon architectural precast panels. Designed to reflect the arrival of the first waka and honour the local environment, the centre sets a national benchmark for sustainable, high-performance commercial construction - and is the country’s first retail outlet centre to achieve a 5 Green Star design rating.

The judges were impressed by the scale, vision, and collaborative excellence behind Mānawa Bay. This complex commercial development brought together top-tier professionals across architecture, engineering, and construction to deliver a landmark project at New Zealand’s busiest airport. Concrete played a central role - from durable, low-carbon façade panels to high-spec polished floors - enhancing aesthetics, reducing embodied carbon, and maintaining performance through demanding site conditions. Mānawa Bay is a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and design sophistication in modern concrete construction.

Project Team.
Auckland International Airport, Nauhria Precast, Eclipse Architects, TRCB Architects, Day Consultants, Savory Construction, Polished Concrete (PCL), Firth Industries, Stevenson Concrete, Conset Construction and Bespoke Landscape Architects.

CANZAC GROUP - EXCELLENCE IN CONCRETE INNOVATION

WINNER - EcoReef® at River Road, Akitio

EcoReef® at River Road, Akitio.

Developed through collaboration between a local inventor, contractor, and council, the EcoReef® system has delivered an innovative concrete solution to severe erosion challenges along the Ākitio River in the Tararua District. Over 1,100 modular reinforced concrete units were installed to reinstate critical roading infrastructure, enhance fish habitat, and provide long-term resilience in a culturally and environmentally sensitive site.

The judges recognised EcoReef® as a groundbreaking concrete innovation addressing a real-world infrastructure challenge with strength, simplicity, and ingenuity. The modular, interlocking concrete units - designed for rapid installation and long-term durability - restored a storm-damaged rural lifeline while enhancing ecological outcomes and respecting iwi values. This homegrown solution, born from coastal adversity and hands-on experimentation, exemplifies the creative potential of concrete when paired with practical insight and community collaboration. A transformative project with national relevance and future-facing impact.

Project Team.
Lattey Group, Tararua Alliance, EcoReef®, Tararua District Council, Bridgeman Concrete and Agmar Tools.

HIGHLY COMMENDED - KinaKrete by KiwiKrete

KinaKrete by KiwiKrete.

Startup KiwiKrete is reimagining sustainable concrete through KinaKrete - a material that replaces traditional materials with invasive kina shells and aquaculture waste. This innovative approach not only reduces carbon emissions but also helps restore marine ecosystems and reduce aquaculture byproduct landfilling. While still in early stages, KinaKrete shows bold potential for environmentally regenerative concrete.

The judges were struck by the vision and ingenuity behind KinaKrete, a promising innovation that turns two environmental problems - kina overpopulation and aquaculture waste—into a unique, sustainable concrete solution. KiwiKrete’s approach integrates marine ecosystem restoration, carbon sequestration, and low-carbon binder development. The initiative stands out for its environmental ambition, strong research foundation, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Project Team.
KiwiKrete.

EXCELLENCE IN CONCRETE LANDSCAPING

WINNER - Waiaroha Heretaunga Water Discovery Centre, Hastings

Waiaroha Heretaunga Water Discovery Centre, Hastings.

Waiaroha Heretaunga Water Discovery Centre in Hastings transforms a critical water infrastructure site into an inspiring public space that celebrates environmental stewardship and community learning. Central to the landscape is the expert use of permeable and decorative concrete - delivering complex pathways, riverscapes, amphitheatre steps, and drainage systems that emulate the natural journey of water, blending technical precision with cultural storytelling.

The judges applauded Waiaroha for its outstanding use of concrete to shape a community landscape with a strong environmental and educational purpose. The intricate execution of permeable concrete, curved pathways, exposed aggregate finishes, and a concrete “river” showcases a high level of craftsmanship and innovation. The project demonstrates how concrete, when used with imagination and care, can support sustainability, reflect cultural narratives, and create spaces that connect people to place and purpose.

Project Team.
AMC Contracting, Gemco Construction, Firth Industries and Hastings District Council.

CONCRETE NZ - EXCELLENCE IN CONCRETE REMEDIATION AND REUSE

WINNER - Regions 3 & 4 Bridge Strengthening Programme, Waikato and Bay of Plenty

Regions 3 & 4 Bridge Strengthening Programme, Waikato and Bay of Plenty.

The Regions 3 & 4 Bridge Strengthening Programme rehabilitated 14 concrete bridges across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty using Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) technology. This innovative approach extended service life, reduced embodied carbon by up to 99%, preserved heritage structures, and enabled freight efficiency - demonstrating concrete’s adaptability for climate-resilient infrastructure in regional New Zealand.

The judges were impressed with the programme’s commitment to preserving and strengthening concrete infrastructure through innovative, low-impact techniques. By adopting FRP strengthening over full deck replacement, the project achieved dramatic reductions in embodied carbon, construction waste, and disruption - while enhancing durability and seismic resilience. The team’s ability to work under live traffic and tailor solutions across diverse sites speaks to outstanding technical skill and collaboration. This initiative sets a high standard for sustainable concrete remediation and future-proofing regional transport networks.

Project Team.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Beca and Contech.

HIGHLY COMMENDED - SH1 Mangatoetoenui Stream Bridge Replacement, Dessert Road

SH1 Mangatoetoenui Stream Bridge Replacement, Dessert Road.

During a scheduled closure of Desert Road, the SH1 Mangatoetoenui Stream Bridge underwent a transformative upgrade - replacing its aging timber deck with a precast concrete superstructure. By embracing Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) principles, the team delivered a sustainable, durable solution with minimal disruption, preserving the original substructure and optimising concrete use in one of the country’s most critical transport corridors.

The judges commended this project for its smart application of DfMA principles to deliver a high-performance concrete superstructure under intense time pressure. By retaining the existing substructure and fabricating 95% of structural elements off-site, the team minimised carbon, waste, and on-site disruption. This commendation recognises the project’s integration of sustainability, innovation, and construction efficiency - setting a strong example for future concrete remediation and repair projects on New Zealand’s national highway network.

Project Team.
Beca, Oxcon CLL, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Eastbridge and Preco Precast Concrete.

BCITO - EXCELLENCE IN RESIDENTIAL CONCRETE

WINNER - Iconic 3D Show Home, Hamilton

Iconic 3D Show Home, Hamilton.

The Iconic 3D Show Home in Hamilton is New Zealand’s first residential building constructed using 3D-printed concrete technology. Designed to showcase QOROX’s innovative wall system, the 167 m² home features over 200 m² of off-site printed concrete panels. Completed in just 99 days, it demonstrates a new era in sustainable, efficient, and visually striking concrete construction for residential settings.

The judges were excited to see the potential of 3D concrete printing realised in a residential context. This show home combines architectural flair with seismic resilience, thermal performance, and remarkable build speed. By integrating a low-carbon, locally sourced mix and producing virtually zero waste, the project represents a leap forward in residential concrete innovation. The result is a home that feels soft and inviting, yet is robust and efficient - proving that concrete’s future in housing is not only possible, but already here.

Project Team.
Iconic Construction, QOROX, The Architecture People, G.A. Hughes & Associates and Brymer Heights.

GOLDEN BAY - EXCELLENCE IN SUSTAINABLE CONCRETE FOR THE PLANET

WINNER - Shakespeare Bay Log Yard, Port Marlborough

Shakespeare Bay Log Yard, Port Marlborough.

Faced with the need for a heavy-duty, long-life pavement solution, Port Marlborough adopted New Zealand’s first large-scale use of Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) for its 35,000 m² Shakespeare Bay log yard. Delivered by Rolco in collaboration with Firth, the project cut embodied carbon by up to 50%, eliminated construction waste, and set a new benchmark for resilient, low-emissions port infrastructure - demonstrating RCC’s future potential for industrial and other applications across Aotearoa.

The judges were impressed by the pioneering application of Roller Compacted Concrete technology in a demanding port environment. The project demonstrated exceptional foresight, collaboration, and execution - resulting in a durable pavement that drastically reduces embodied carbon, waste, and long-term maintenance. By proving RCC’s suitability for New Zealand conditions, the project not only future-proofs key infrastructure but opens new possibilities for sustainable roading nationwide.

Project Team.
Rolco NZ, Firth Industries, Gill Construction Co and the Port Marlborough New Zealand (PMNZ).

HIGHLY COMMENDED - APD Factory, Auckland

APD Factory, Auckland.

At APD’s new factory in Wiri, Auckland, the concrete slab-on-grade floor was constructed using 100% manufactured sand - New Zealand’s first commercial application to eliminate natural sand. Engineered with Kayasand’s dry, dust-free V7 technology, the mix achieved superior performance and reduced embodied carbon, demonstrating that sustainable alternatives can meet the high demands of industrial concrete applications.

The judges were impressed by the technical execution and sustainability leadership shown in this pioneering project. Factory floor slabs are among the most demanding concrete applications, and the team proved that a 100% manufactured sand mix could match performance expectations. The project exemplifies how precision-engineered materials can drive down emissions, conserve natural resources, and deliver robust, high-quality results. This commendation recognises the bold step toward mainstream adoption of low-carbon alternatives in even the most exacting concrete environments.

Project Team.
Kayasand, Conset Construction, Richards Consulting Engineers, APD Ltd and Macrennie Commercial Construction.