The Waikato property industry celebrated one of its most respected figures as Judith Makinson of CKL took home both the Beca Women in Property Award and the prestigious Colliers Project Leaders Supreme Award at the Property Council New Zealand Central Property People Awards.
Judith Makinson
With more than 25 years of international experience in transportation engineering, Judith has left a lasting mark on both public and private sectors, establishing herself as Waikato’s “go-to” property expert.
The judging panel highlighted Judith’s far-reaching influence, saying, “her contributions extend well beyond her formal role. Judith is a tireless advocate for the entire property sector, and her wealth of experience combined with an unwavering commitment to excellence make her a true industry role model.”
The Pā
In other award highlights, the team behind the Marine Parade Coastal Pathway earned the Chow:Hill Urban Design Award for their innovative design and development, while the University of Waikato’s The Pā Project Team was recognised with the Veros Best Team Award for their collaborative work on the University’s transformational project.
Ryan Tesselaar
Rising industry talent Ryan Tesselaar of Fosters was named Rider Levett Bucknall Young Achiever of the Year. His rapid career progression and leadership have made a significant impact on both the business and the wider community.
“Ryan’s impressive leadership trajectory combined with his dedication to the growth and development of others makes him a standout future leader in the property sector,” noted the judges.
The Te Rapa Gateway Project Team secured the Harkness Henry Judges’ Choice Award for their role in transforming 60 hectares of farmland into one of New Zealand’s most dynamic industrial parks. The judges applauded the team’s collaboration and 20-year vision, which has reshaped Hamilton’s employment landscape.
Te Rapa Gateway
“The success of Te Rapa Gateway is a testament to innovation and teamwork, resulting in a large-scale development that will continue to drive economic growth in the Waikato region,” said the panel.
Miko Brouwer
The CKL Property Professional of the Year Award was awarded to Miko Brouwer, recognised for her leadership in fostering iwi partnerships and promoting sustainability initiatives across both residential and commercial sectors.
The judging panel said “Miko’s leadership is setting a new standard for future leaders in our industry, and her work is leaving a lasting legacy.”
The Boffa Miskell Excellence in Sustainability Award was awarded to the Fosters team for their groundbreaking work on Stage 1 of the Metlifecare Somervale Village. This innovative project aimed to construct one of the Bay of Plenty’s first mass timber buildings, achieving a 7 Homestar.
Fosters Melifecare Somervale
Built rating while promoting sustainable building practices. The team surpassed their sustainability targets by diverting more than 80% of the 232 tonnes of waste generated, setting a new benchmark for environmentally conscious construction in the region.
Buddy Mikaere, consultant and advocate was honoured with the Fosters Outstanding Leadership Award for his decades of leadership and dedication to unity and partnerships across Aotearoa.
“With boundless energy and a genuine passion for positive change, Buddy has set an exemplary benchmark for leadership in our industry,” said the judges.
The Hawkins Long Service Award saw two recipients this year.
Doug Saunders
In Waikato, Doug Sanders was recognised for his extensive career as a registered valuer and his contributions to communities across Hamilton, Cambridge, and beyond.
In the Bay of Plenty, Bill Holland of Holland Beckett was honoured for his dedication to the community, notably through his role in establishing the Acorn Foundation and promoting private philanthropy.
“Bill’s work with local organisations like TECT, Rotary, and Priority One has made him an inspiring leader, motivating others to contribute to lasting, positive change,” said the panel.
Property Council Chief Executive Leonie Freeman closed the night by celebrating the winners: “It’s an honour to recognise the people behind the projects that are transforming our communities. These individuals and teams are creating the spaces where we live, work, and play, and it’s a privilege to celebrate their achievements.”
- Colliers Project Leaders Supreme Excellence Award & Beca Women in Property Award
Judith Makinson, CKL - Rider Levett Bucknall Young Achiever of the Year Award
Ryan Tesselaar, Fosters - Chow:Hill Architects Urban Design Award
Marine Parade Coastal Pathway Team – Tauranga City Council, Boffa Miskell, Fulton Hogan, Ngāi Tūkairangi, Ngāti Kuku, GHD, Veros - CKL Property Professional of the Year Award
Miko Brouwer, RDT Pacific - Fosters Outstanding Leadership Award
Buddy Mikaere, Consultant - Veros Best Team Award
Te Pā Project Team – University of Waikato, Colliers Project Leaders, Jasmax, Architectus, Rider Levett Bucknall, Beca, Hawkins - Boffa Miskell Excellence in Sustainability Award
The Fosters Team for Metlifecare Somervale Village Redevelopment Stage 1 - Hawkins Long Service Award – Waikato
Doug Saunders, CBRE - Hawkins Long Service Award – Bay of Plenty
Bill Holland, Holland Beckett - Harkness Henry Judges’ Choice Award
Te Rapa Gateway Project Team – BCD Group, Burton Partners Lawyers, Chalmers Properties, CKL, Eclipse Architecture, Gray Consulting Engineers, Fosters, Octa Associates.
