As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, Tuia Pito Ora New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects is proud to open nominations for the 2026 President's Awards.

The President's Awards recognise individuals and organisations whose time, dedication, passion, and vision have advanced the profession of landscape architecture in Aotearoa. They celebrate the people whose mahi strengthens our profession, often quietly, generously, and behind the scenes.

This year marks an important evolution in the awards process.

Historically, President's Awards have been determined through an internal process. From 2026 onwards, NZILA members are invited to nominate individuals and organisations whose contributions deserve recognition.

Opening nominations during National Volunteer Week is intentional. The President's Awards recognise service, leadership, and contribution beyond expectation, values that sit at the heart of volunteerism and collective effort.

Landscape architecture in Aotearoa is strengthened every day by people who mentor emerging practitioners, serve on branches and panels, advocate for better outcomes, build relationships with communities and tangata whenua, contribute research and innovation, and champion our profession in ways both visible and unseen.

The President's Awards exist to celebrate that contribution.

Nominations are open to both members and non-members. Individuals, organisations, clients, collaborators, iwi, hapū, councils, and community leaders may all be recognised where their contribution has advanced landscape architecture in Aotearoa.

Recognition may be for leadership, service to the profession, advocacy, cultural leadership, collaboration, innovation, or emerging leadership. Categories provide guidance only, and the President retains discretion in final award naming and presentation.

Importantly, recognition is not based on seniority, profile, or length of service alone. Strong nominations demonstrate meaningful contribution and impact, highlighting mahi that strengthens the profession as a whole.

Perhaps someone comes to mind immediately.

Perhaps it is the branch volunteer who quietly keeps things moving. The mentor who has supported countless emerging practitioners. The advocate who speaks up for better outcomes. The collaborator who builds enduring relationships across communities and disciplines.

Now is the time to recognise them.

Nominations are open until 27 July 2026 and will be presented at the President's Function during the 2026 Firth NZILA Wānanga in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.

Together, we strengthen our profession.

Nominations close 11.59pm Monday 27 July.

Nominate now