Structural steel projects, people and leadership recognised
The structural steel industry gathered for a landmark evening that brought together its top projects, emerging talent and long-serving leaders. Close to 300 specialists attended the Steel Construction New Zealand (SCNZ) gala, where the 2025 SCNZ Excellence in Steel Awards, Apprentice and Young Achiever awards, and the SCNZ Chair’s Award were presented.
Across all categories, judges described the standard of entries and nominations as exceptional, reflecting a sector committed to innovation, collaboration and best practice.
SCNZ chair Malcolm Hammond said the scope and calibre of work across the industry continues to impress.
“The projects submitted this year demonstrate the incredible skill and creativity within New Zealand’s structural steel industry,” Hammond says. “From design to delivery, our industry continues to set the standard for innovation, collaboration and excellence in steel construction.”
SCNZ general manager Darren O’Riley says the quality of work presented to judges is evidence of a confident and forward-thinking sector.
“Judging this year’s awards was exceptionally challenging, reflecting the remarkable quality of entries across the board,” O’Riley says.
Major project winners for 2025
Nearly 50 submissions were considered for the Excellence in Steel Awards, with 20 finalists selected across six categories. Together, the projects highlight the versatility of structural steel and its ability to deliver technically demanding, culturally significant and architecturally ambitious outcomes.
Winners were:
- Supreme winner and Over $3M category winner: Eastbridge and Culham Engineering – Te Ara Pekapeka Bridge
A vital new crossing over the Waikato River, this 180 metre-long traffic bridge incorporates intricate Māori carvings and patterns that elevate it to a sculptural landmark. Two 30 metre Y-shaped lattice piers support four lines of box tub girders and a composite concrete deck, delivering a resilient community asset.
- $1.5M–$3M category winner: VIP Structural Steel – Mixed-Use on High Street
This six-storey development features a 10-sided footprint and faceted façades that required bespoke engineering on every floor. Cantilevers, shifting geometries and a complex roof demanded millimetre precision to align steel framing with architectural intent.
- $500K–$1.5M category winner: Eastbridge – Wai Kahua Waka Footbridge
Shaped in the form of a waka, this footbridge commemorates 1,000 years of Māori navigation. Artistic expression and engineering performance are interwoven throughout the structure, creating an enduring cultural landmark.
- Under $500K category winner: DHC Consulting Group – Lot 43 Te Arai
A technically demanding residential structure defined by floating double-cantilevered roofs and slender square hollow section columns. Structural steel delivered the lightness, span and precision the design required.
- Standalone Residential category winner: VIP Structural Steel – Round House
Located on a remote coastal site, this circular home – evoking a cut totara stump – relies on curved steel framing to enable its design. Floor-to-ceiling glazing is bonded directly to the structure, requiring exceptional precision.
- Earthquake Strengthening category winner: MJH Engineering – Te Matapihi Wellington Central Library
Closed in 2019 due to seismic concerns, the library has been transformed into a resilient civic facility. More than 1,000 tonnes of structural steel, including custom K-frames, new foundations and column encasements, have created a structure that now moves as a unified, base-isolated system.
Emerging talent recognised
Alongside the project awards, SCNZ also celebrated the industry’s next generation through the Apprentice of the Year and Young Achiever of the Year awards. These honours acknowledge individuals whose skill, attitude and commitment set them apart in a competitive and rapidly evolving sector.
Hammond says nurturing talent is essential to the industry’s future.
“Structural steel offers diverse and rewarding career paths, and our role as an industry is to open doors and guide emerging talent,” he says. “Equally important are the companies that invest in training, mentoring and development to support the next generation of industry leaders.”
More than 10% of employees within local structural steel contractors are currently in training programmes, and 70% of companies employ an average of five apprentices – a sign of the sector’s investment in its people.
Judges say that finalists across both categories demonstrated impressive capability and professionalism.
Winners were:
- Apprentice of the Year winner: James Webster, PFS Engineering
Recognised for his initiative, attention to detail and strong commitment to quality and safety, James Webster impressed judges with his maturity and technical ability. He is known for his proactive approach to learning, problem-solving and supporting safe work environments.
- Young Achiever of the Year winner: Tennille Nisbet, project manager, PFS Engineering
Tennille Nisbet’s career progression from summer intern to the company’s youngest project manager stood out for its pace, leadership and impact. She has delivered complex and high-risk industrial projects with confidence and professionalism, earning strong respect across her business.
Chair’s Award honours
longstanding contribution
Leadership and service were also celebrated through the presentation of the SCNZ Chair’s Award. This year’s recipient, Rebecca van Eyssen of the Heavy Engineering Research Association (HERA), was recognised for her sustained and influential contribution to the industry.
“Never one to seek the spotlight, Rebecca’s impact on SCNZ and the wider industry has been immense,” Hammond says. “This award recognises her dedication and professionalism, and the energy she brings to everything she does.”
Van Eyssen began her journey with SCNZ in 2008 and has remained a trusted presence ever since. She played a key role in broadening SCNZ’s focus beyond technical matters to include genuine member engagement and support, and she was instrumental in establishing SCNZ’s major events programme, including the inaugural conference in Rotorua in 2018. Since joining HERA five years ago, she has continued to strengthen cross-sector connections through her guidance, insight and commitment to collaboration.Her influence, often behind the scenes, has helped shape the industry’s culture and strengthened the community it represents.