Rising Star Award
The New Zealand roading industry Rising Star Award recognises the standout individual under 40 in the New Zealand roading sector, based on their career achievements to date. This prestigious award is presented annually.

Anton Benadie
Senior Project Manager
Higgins Contractors
finalist
Rising Star Award
Future Roads 2025
Starting as a carpenter in South Africa while studying part-time, Anton progressed to managing major infrastructure projects before immigrating to New Zealand. Now Pavement Manager on Eastern Busway Alliance, his people-first leadership delivers measurable improvements in efficiency and quality.