The 2025 New Zealand Architecture Awards have recognized outstanding architectural achievements across 11 diverse categories, celebrating projects that range from innovative church conversions and striking bridges to remarkable homes nestled within New Zealand's dramatic natural landscapes. The competition highlighted the nation's architectural talent and commitment to sustainable, culturally sensitive design practices.
Among the notable winners, Te Mania by Stevens Lawson Architects claimed the hospitality category award, while the heritage category was won by the Chapel of the Upper Room project by WilkieBruce Registered Architects. The architects were specifically praised for their thoughtful upgrade of the much-loved college building for Canterbury University, which was originally designed by Warren and Mahoney in the 1960s. Judges commended the renovations for being executed with exceptional care and consideration, ensuring that the interior space retained its original character and significance.
The housing category saw multiple winners, including the innovative Kaka Pod by Rafe Maclean Architects, a compact triangular home measuring just 60 square meters. This distinctive dwelling follows the natural sloping topography of its site, while its curved corners help soften its presence within the surrounding landscape. Judges particularly appreciated the thoughtfully placed openings that perfectly frame scenic views and noted that the interior bunkroom loft was a charming addition that maximized the compact space.
Another housing winner, Bush Block by Patchwork Architecture, demonstrated how architectural excellence can be achieved despite challenging constraints. Judges noted that a limited budget and difficult site conditions did not prevent this house from being both practical and poetic in its design approach. The project showcased efficient planning through a simple box structure that incorporated innovative materials and demonstrated clarity in their application.
The public architecture category was claimed by the Punangairi Visitor Centre by Sheppard & Rout Architects, located on the South Island's west coast. This sustainable facility seamlessly integrates with its natural landscape setting, featuring a green roof that not only echoes the surrounding tree canopy but also serves the practical purpose of managing the west coast's notoriously heavy rainfall. Judges emphasized that the center would support regenerative tourism initiatives and deliver lasting benefits to the local community.
In the planning and urban design category, Te Ara Pekapeka by Edwards White Architects and BBO in association took top honors. Judges described this Hamilton bridge as an elegant work of architecture that brings dynamism and strong presence to an area that might otherwise have been defined by purely functional engineering solutions. The structure was constructed using methods that avoided interference with the culturally significant Waikato River, which holds special importance to Māori communities, while also minimizing environmental impact.
The hospitality category winner, Sugarloaf at Flockhill by Hierarchy Group, stands majestically within a dramatic alpine landscape setting. This restaurant project utilizes a rich palette of natural materials that complement its mountain environment. Judges praised the design for achieving a masterful balance of grandeur, intimacy, and precision that enhances the dining experience while respecting the natural surroundings.
Several small project winners demonstrated how thoughtful design can transform limited spaces into extraordinary environments. BB House by Upoko Architects, measuring just 6x6 meters, showed how creative design can maximize a small site's potential. Judges described it as a compact yet generous home that provided delightful surprises at every turn. The design prioritized privacy through screened courtyards and strategically placed high windows, while the bedroom layout challenged conventional ideas about contemporary living spaces.
The Walker Box by Micah Architecture, another small project winner, represents a three-story tower house that successfully addressed budget, size, and building constraints. While the design paid homage to famous architect Roger Walker, judges noted that the geometric purity of its compositions remained distinctively the architect's own creative vision.
Among the larger residential projects, Openfield House by Keshaw McArthur and Matheson Whiteley stood out for its ability to hold its ground against the vast scale of New Zealand's landscape and environmental challenges. Judges highlighted the refinement evident in the acute attention to materiality, tonal harmony, and texture, identifying these as hallmarks of high-caliber design that responds appropriately to its dramatic setting.
The housing alterations and additions category recognized the Wainui Church Conversion by Warren and Mahoney Architects and Objects in association. This remarkable transformation of a church into a family holiday home was applauded for its sensitivity to the building's original construction methods and materials, while simultaneously being inventive in its modern adaptation and functionality.
The competition's most prestigious recognition went to Popadich House by Davor Popadich Architects, which won both the housing category and the Sir Ian Athfield award for housing. Judges praised this project as a mature work from an experienced architect, demonstrating exceptional skill in creating flexible floor plans and adaptable spaces that provide a versatile environment for everyday family use and various activities. This dual recognition underscores the project's exceptional contribution to New Zealand's architectural landscape and its embodiment of excellence in residential design.
