Formerly known as Parks Person of the Year, the Parks Leader of the Year Award recognises outstanding mid-career leaders who are advancing public parks through exceptional leadership, sustainable practice, and innovative thinking.
This award celebrates those valued team members who consistently deliver excellence and contribute meaningfully to the enhancement, development, and long-term resilience of our parks and open spaces.
Nominate a mid-career leader who embodies dedication, innovation, and impact.
Examples, but not limited to, of mid-career leaders include Senior Rangers or Specialist Rangers, Team Leaders, Project or Programme Managers, Parks or Asset Managers, Environmental or Horticultural Specialists, and Volunteer Coordinators operating at a strategic delivery level in Parks.
The winner of this award will go on to represent the parks sector in the Recreation Leader of the Year Award, competing alongside finalists from the Aquatics and Community Recreation categories.
Nominations close Friday 27 February 2026.
If you have any questions, please submit them to kierans@nzrecreation.org.nz before this time.