Innovation Award

This award recognises that transformation is happening in our sector and is awarded to the project that has taken an innovative approach and achieved a positive outcome. Innovation could be in the field of process, design, construction, materials or technology

H T M L Code
Innovation Award

Project: Hotel Grand Chancellor

Entrant

NZ Strong Group

Project Partners

Beca (Client Representative/Electrical Engineer/Project Manager/Structural Engineer), Ignite Architects (Architect/Designer), NZ Strong Group (Construction Company), Rider Levett Bucknall (Quantity Surveyor)

The 12-storey Hotel Grand Chancellor brings a premium accommodation option to Auckland’s city centre. It offers 191 guest rooms, stunning northern views, and a central courtyard with a lush biophilic design. Located adjacent to the New Zealand International Convention Centre, the hotel incorporates a green façade, 10-storey indoor climbing plants, and native coastal flora, blending modern luxury with a connection to nature. Collaboration was key to the project’s success, with senior leaders actively engaged alongside strong delivery teams, fostering a highly cohesive working environment. This world-class development exemplifies sustainability, innovation, and a commitment to elevating Auckland’s hospitality landscape.

Judges comments

The Hotel Grand Chancellor brings a high-quality hotel offering to Auckland’s city centre, delivering a strong architectural presence on a challenging urban site. With limited space and complex structural demands, the project team overcame significant constraints to achieve an exceptional result. During construction, issues were uncovered with industry-standard ducting methods used in reinforced concrete shear walls. Rather than accept existing practices, the team developed a new quality assurance approach to improve accuracy and reduce rework. This innovation not only improved construction outcomes on the project but contributed to wider industry knowledge; findings were shared through a technical paper and are being included in national guidance.