Parks Awards 2026 Finalists Announced

Parks Awards 2026 Finalists Announced

We are proud to announce the finalists for the 2026 Parks Awards, recognising the people, projects, and places that continue to strengthen and enrich parks and open spaces across Aotearoa New Zealand.

This year’s finalists reflect excellence across the parks sector, including inclusive play, community wellbeing, environmental care, leadership, and strong partnerships. Together, they showcase the depth of commitment and innovation supporting parks and open spaces nationwide.

Playspace of the Year Within $500K

This category recognises high quality, inclusive playspaces that deliver strong community outcomes within a modest budget.

Finalists

• Bubbles Play Pod
  Tauranga City Council

• Hiskens Reserve
  Waipā District Council

• Hukanui Playground
  Waikato District Council

• Mārā Hūpara Ōtāhuhu
  Boffa Miskell and Tūpuna Maunga Authority

Playspace of the Year Over $500K

This category celebrates destination playspaces that provide innovative, large scale play experiences and create places of pride for their communities.

Finalists

• Barry Curtis Park Playspace
  Auckland Council and Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki

• Destination Kāwaroa
  New Plymouth District Council, Ngāti Te Whiti and New Plymouth Partners

• Joy Cowley Children’s Playground
  South Wairarapa District Council and Parks Supplies and Playgrounds

• Leamington Domain
  Waipā District Council

• Tulloch Park Playspace Development
  Gore District Council

Community Park of the Year

This award honours parks that demonstrate strong community benefit through thoughtful planning, environmental care, and meaningful partnerships.

Finalists

• Battle Hill
  Greater Wellington Regional Council

• Eastview Reserve
  Auckland Council, Resilio Studio, Ngāti Tai ki Tāmaki and Ngāti Pāoa

• Te Amo Pūtoro
  Boffa Miskell and Te Amo Pūtoro Working Group

Leadership and Sector Recognition

The Parks Leader Award, formerly known as Parks Person of the Year, will also be presented. This award recognises an individual whose leadership, passion, and contribution have made a lasting impact on the parks sector.

In addition, Green Flag Award recipients will be acknowledged as part of the 2026 awards programme.

Congratulations to all finalists. Your work continues to shape welcoming, resilient, and inspiring parks and open spaces for communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.