2026 Members’ Choice Award — Finalists

Iwi, agencies, community organisations and Council have partnered to intentionally shape Horowhenua into a place where former refugee whānau from Colombia and Venezuela feel welcomed, connected and fully able to participate in community life. Initiatives like housing blessings by Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, flag‑raising ceremonies, civic engagement roles and community events have strengthened belonging, cultural identity and participation, reducing isolation and building a more inclusive, vibrant community.

Whakatupu Ngaengae in Naenae, Lower Hutt, is a community-led regeneration project transforming three public facilities into a connected town centre. Partnering with mana whenua, a Community Advisory Group and stakeholders, Hutt City Council delivered Te Ngaengae Pool and Fitness, Te Mako Community Centre, and redeveloped Walter Mildenhall Park. The initiative has revitalised activity, supported local businesses, and strengthened social, cultural and economic outcomes through integrated placemaking.

Tairāwhiti developed an AI-assisted system to manage large woody debris (LWD) after severe weather and Cyclone Gabrielle. Using aerial and drone imagery with a Multi-Criteria Assessment, the programme prioritises risks, directs resources efficiently, and protects infrastructure and communities. Over 600,000 m³ of debris has been removed from rivers and beaches, safeguarding transport routes, water systems, farmland, and coastal areas.

Kāpiti Coast District Council’s Supplier Hub is an innovative, co-designed procurement platform that improves transparency and supplier engagement. It combines a public-facing hub with guidance, opportunities and updates, and an internal dashboard that gives staff market insights and supplier visibility. The system supports supplier diversity and inclusion, strengthens procurement planning, and provides a single, accessible source of information for both suppliers and Council teams.

The Shannon/Otāuru Community Plan, led by residents with Horowhenua District Council support, shows the power of community-led engagement. A working group designed consultation materials and outreach activities for all ages, achieving 18.5% participation. Residents’ input directly shaped the draft plan, which was adopted in Shannon—the first council plan adopted in the community. The plan continues to guide locally led action and lasting community impact.

Masterton District Council

Masterton District Council’s ‘Taking Care of Business’ programme streamlines how new businesses navigate council processes. By bringing departments together, it reduces silos, clarifies requirements, and provides a clear, supportive pathway. The approach improves efficiency, shortens timelines, and enhances the experience for business owners, making Masterton more attractive for business growth.

Horowhenua District Council

For the 2026/27 Annual Plan, Council addressed rising costs and rate pressures by rethinking its approach. Using “Dragons, Data, Discipline,” councillors challenged assumptions, explored new options, and relied on strong analysis. This enabled a reduced rates increase of 5.8% (down from 11.6%) while protecting essential services. The process shows how data-driven, disciplined and innovative thinking can deliver better outcomes for the community.

Hutt City Council

Tupua Horo Nuku is a 4.4 km coastal resilience and shared path project in Lower Hutt, strengthening the vulnerable Marine Drive corridor. Instead of a traditional seawall, it integrates ecological features like tidal pools, fish passage, and habitat protection areas for native birds. Delivered with partners and mana whenua, it combines climate resilience, active transport, and environmental enhancement for long-term community benefit. 

South Wairarapa District Council

An unformed coastal road at Mātakitaki-a-Kupe (Cape Palliser) holds deep cultural and ecological significance for Ngāti Hinewaka, whose connection spans 900 years. Ongoing misuse by 4WDs damaged this sacred landscape, including burial sites. In response to hapū concerns, South Wairarapa District Council committed to addressing access and protecting the area in partnership.