2026 Supreme Awards

H T M L Code
Supreme Award under $10 Million

Project: The George Forbes Building (Stage 3) - Lincoln University

Entrant

Leighs Construction Ltd

Project Partners

Leighs Construction Ltd (Construction Company), TEAM Projects Advisory (Project Manager)

Owned By

Te Whare Wanaka o Aoraki Lincoln University

Delivering a major structural upgrade beneath six live floors of a working university demanded exceptional planning, care, and communication. Leighs Construction transformed the George Forbes Building while maintaining full operational continuity, preserving emergency exits, protecting a live server room, and coordinating every phase around classes and campus activity. Early contractor involvement ensured risks were managed before construction began, while tailored sequencing and a temporary external staircase enabled uninterrupted access throughout. Despite complex constraints, the project was completed ahead of schedule and earned recognition from the university for its outstanding safety culture. The result is a beautifully modernised gateway building, delivered with precision, collaboration, and deep respect for the campus environment.

Judges comments

The George Forbes Building (Stage 3) gives Lincoln University a gateway worthy of the campus that sits behind it. Delivered by Leighs Construction on budget and ahead of schedule, it transformed the main entrance in time for orientation week, without disruption to university life. Outdated areas were removed, facilities were upgraded, and new spaces were created across the ground and first floors to make arrival clearer and more welcoming. The judges admired the way original brick columns were retained, the entry sequence was reshaped, and the carved entrance feature strengthened the connection with Ngai Tahu and Te Taumutu Runanga. Inside, the spaces are filled with natural light and feel vibrant and inviting. Completed with great care around the 300 staff working above, this is a thoughtful and memorable project, and a deserving Supreme Award winner under $10 million.

 
Supreme Award over $10 Million

Project: Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui (Wellington Central Library)

Entrant

LT McGuinness Ltd

Project Partners

Athfield Architects Limited (Architect/Designer), Aurecon Group (Structural Engineer)

Owned By

Wellington City Council

Te Matapihi’s upgrade was one of those rare civic projects where everything matters, and everyone is watching. The team strengthened the existing library, then carried out the extraordinary task of installing base isolators underneath it, all on a tight site with challenging ground conditions. For a time, the building was held safely in place by temporary supports while new foundations and structural systems were built below. Work ran across every level at once, with multiple crews operating in parallel and daily coordination keeping safety and quality at the forefront of mind. It was complex, high-risk work, delivered with calm control and constant teamwork. The best part is the outcome. The project finished without extra time or budget, and achieved a 5 Green Star rating, proving that upgrading and keeping a valued building can be the smarter, more sustainable choice. For many involved, it was personal. Te Matapihi is now a safer, stronger library, ready for generations to come.

Judges comments

Te Matapihi Ki Te Ao Nui (Wellington Central Library) is an outstanding example of what can be achieved when civic ambition, sustainability, and technical skill come together. This was one of the most technically demanding projects of its kind in New Zealand, requiring the temporary support of the existing structure to enable the installation of base isolators beneath. What made it exceptional was the way every challenge, from cost control to complex engineering, was met with calm and thorough collaboration. By choosing to strengthen and renew the building rather than demolish it, the team preserved a much-loved civic landmark, reduced waste and embodied carbon, and achieved a 5 Star Green Star rating. Delivered on time and on budget, this is a truly deserving Supreme Award winner.