In Whirinaki, Te Hikutū Hapū, supported by Northland Regional Council, led a proactive, hapū-driven managed retreat to address severe flood risk. Using mātauranga Māori and the PARA framework, the community determined relocation was the safest long-term option for around 80 homes in a flood-prone valley. The Whirinaki Masterplan enables whānau to move to elevated papakāinga, restoring the floodplain and creating new opportunities, while demonstrating shared leadership and Te Tiriti partnership.
Entry credits:
Northland Regional Council
Thankyou to our award sponsor:
Eagle Technology
See more award winning entries
Excellence in Māori-Council Partnerships - Te Tohu Waka Hourua (the Double Canoe)
He Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa
Taupō District Council
In a historic moment for Aotearoa, Taupō District Council and Ngāti Tūwharetoa have further strengthened their partnership and connection by coming together in one purpose-built whare ‘He Whare Hono ō
Award Year: 2025
Excellence in Organisation and People Development
Reimaginging Work
Whakatāne District Council
Whakatāne District Council has reimagined work. What began as a building refurbishment in response to required earthquake strengthening work resulted in a seismic shift in how we work. We realised
Award Year: 2024
Excellence in Cost-Effectiveness
Climate Resilience versus Recovery Costs for Transport Networks
Auckland Transport
Auckland Transport analysed 215 landslides from 2023 storms, showing prevention is far more cost effective than recovery. Preventative works cost as little as 15–30% of recovery, aligning with global findings.
Award Year: 2026
