Nominations due for roading's Rising Star Award

Firms have two weeks to lodge nominations for the 2026 Rising Star Award.

The award, now in its third year, looks to recognise outstanding members of the roading industry under 40 years old.

Entries have opened and close on 12 August.

Last year's winner was Nick Brewer of HEB Construction, pictured.

2025 winner

Brewer won in 2025 thanks to his passion, innovation, and leadership.

"Nick's enthusiasm for improving community safety and collaboration was unmistakable," the three-strong judging panel said at the time.

"His commitment to sharing his solutions - even with competitors - shows a rare dedication to the greater good."

Brewer was driving innovation in road safety as asset information and systems manager at HEB.

The panel said his pioneering GIS-based emergency response app had transformed how councils and contractors responded to major events, enabling faster action.

Brewer's collaborative approach - working with councils, industry partners and iwi - has led to safer roads and more efficient operations, earning national recognition for innovation and teamwork.

2026 entries

This year's finalists will be announced on 9 September and the award - sponsored by Jacobs - will be presented during the Future Roads Conference dinner on 25 November.

Nominations must be made using the official entry form. Organisations can nominate more than one person.

The judging panel comprises Lynette Ellis, head of transport and waste management for Christchurch City Council; Scott Ford, general manager of Isaac Construction; and Murray Burt, chief infrastructure officer for Auckland Airport.

More information and tips on nomination can be found on the Future Roads website.