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Our specialist consultants are experts across a range of disciplines, connecting you with the right talent for your permanent, temporary, contract, or interim jobs. Share your requirements and our experts will get in touch.

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Accounting & finance Partner with us to find highly skilled accounting and finance professionals who will drive your organisation’s financial success. Human resources Recruit HR leaders who will empower your workforce and drive organisational growth. Risk, assurance & compliance Strengthen your team with experienced professionals in risk management, assurance and compliance. Legal Access top-tier legal talent through our network of New Zealand's most recognised in-house and law firm specialists. Business support Connect with skilled administrative and support professionals who will enhance efficiency across your organisation. Sales Hire dynamic sales and commercial professionals who align with your goals and drive business growth across industries. Policy & government Access experienced public sector professionals who understand policy, governance, and the unique demands of New Zealand’s government landscape. Technology Hire innovative tech professionals to lead your organisation’s digital transformation and cutting-edge projects. Business transformation Bring on board change-makers who will lead successful transformations and drive innovation within your business. Marketing Collaborate with creative marketing professionals who will amplify your brand’s presence and deliver impactful campaigns. Procurement & supply chain Let us connect you with procurement and supply chain experts who can optimise your operations and deliver results. Property Partner with us to secure property professionals who drive asset performance, deliver developments, and support long-term portfolio growth.

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Explore the opportunities from a range of organisations that exclusively partner with Robert Walters for their hiring needs.

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Truly global and proudly local, we’ve been serving New Zealand for over 25 years with offices in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington.

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Expertise

Our specialist consultants are experts across a range of disciplines, connecting you with the right talent for your permanent, temporary, contract, or interim jobs. Share your requirements and our experts will get in touch.

Submit a vacancy

Exclusive Recruitment Partners

Explore the opportunities from a range of organisations that exclusively partner with Robert Walters for their hiring needs.

Learn more
About Robert Walters New Zealand

Kia ora. For us, recruitment is more than just a job. We understand that behind every opportunity is the chance to make a difference to people’s lives.

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Our people are the difference. Hear stories from our people to learn more about a career at Robert Walters New Zealand

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Contact Us

Truly global and proudly local, we’ve been serving New Zealand for over 25 years with offices in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington.

Get in touch

Thank you for your nominations

Nominations are now closed for The New Zealand Leadership Awards 2026

View key dates

Nominations now closed

Shortlisted nominees will be contacted following the judges’ initial review.

View key dates

Nomination guide

Read the nomination guidelines and award criteria.

Learn more

Judging panel

View the esteemed panel of judges for NZLA 2026.

View judges

 

 

Recognising exceptional leadership in Aotearoa


In 2026, The New Zealand Leadership Awards returns for its third year, celebrating those leaders who have not only navigated change but have used it to inspire progress. These awards stand as a platform for recognising professionals who exemplify excellence in leadership and impact within their fields.

In an ever-evolving business landscape, effective leadership remains the cornerstone of success. Across all sectors, individuals continue to rise to the challenges, driving innovation, resilience, and growth within their organisations.

We are proud to once again celebrate existing and emerging leaders who are shaping the future of our nation.

 

Our panel of expert judges

We're thrilled to announce our judging panel for the New Zealand Leadership Awards 2026. 

Featuring industry leaders such as Michael Hendriksen, Dr Mai Chen, Rob Coneybeer and more, our panel brings unparalleled expertise and a deep commitment to fostering leadership and business growth in New Zealand.

Hnry x NZLA

"At Hnry, we believe great leadership removes barriers and empowers people to do their best work. Supporting the Robert Walters Leadership Awards allows us to celebrate those setting the standard and shaping the future of leadership in Aotearoa."

- James Fuller, CEO & Co-Founder

The awards process

Nomination phase

Simply nominate yourself or an exceptional leader through our submission platform Award Force. The process is straightforward, involving just one question. It's designed to respect your time, requiring only a few minutes for submission. 

Judging process

Each nomination will be reviewed by a panel of industry experts and leaders, who will determine the award category shortlist. Shortlisted nominees will then be invited to an interview with the judging panel, providing an opportunity to further showcase their leadership experiences.

Awards ceremony

Finalists will be invited to our black-tie awards night in Auckland, taking place in September 2026. This event is an opportunity for networking and recognition among peers. It's an evening dedicated to leadership excellence in Aotearoa.

Key dates

  • Nominations open: 2 March - 01 May
  • Shortlisting round: 04 May - 29 May
  • Interview round: 01 June - 17 July
  • Emerging Leader public voting: 17 June - 17 July
  • Finalists announced: 22 July
  • Ticket sales released: 23 July - 28 August
  • Awards evening: 10 September

 

 

Sponsors

Thank you to the generous sponsors of the 2026 New Zealand Leadership Awards. If you are interested in sponsoring the 2026 Awards or would like to discuss opportunities, please get in touch with our team at nzleadershipawards@robertwalters.co.nz

   Headline sponsor

 

   Award category sponsors

Charity partner

Robert Walters is proud to partner with The Graeme Dingle Foundation, an organisation dedicated to nurturing New Zealand's future leaders.

Through education and adventure-based learning, the Foundation inspires self-confidence, self-belief, and leadership skills in young people. We are excited to support their mission and contribute to the growth of tomorrow’s leaders. 

 

 

 

Connecting leaders and employers through executive search

Great leadership doesn’t just shape organisations, it defines their future. For over 40 years, we’ve specialised in identifying exceptional leaders and connecting them with organisations where they can truly thrive. Trusted by employers and executives alike, we align vision, capability, and ambition across New Zealand and globally.

Let’s talk.
Our executive search service connects forward-thinking organisations with outstanding leadership talent. Get in touch to find out more.

FAQs

  • When will the New Zealand Leadership Awards take place?

    The New Zealand Leadership Awards will be held on the 10th of September 2026 at the New Zealand International Convention Centre.
  • Who can be nominated for the New Zealand Leadership Awards?

    Anyone can be nominated for the New Zealand Leadership Awards. Whether you are an individual looking to showcase your own leadership skills or a professional wanting to nominate someone you believe deserves recognition for their outstanding existing or emerging leadership qualities, we encourage everyone to participate.
  • How long will nominations be open for?

    Nominations will be open for a two-month period, from 02 March - 01 May 2026
  • What is the nomination process?

    Nominations are initially submitted through a form on our submission platform, Awards Force. Shortlisted candidates from the first round will be notified and asked to provide additional information, such as supporting documents, website links, or other relevant materials.
  • How will the judging process work?

    The judging process begins with panels reviewing the shortlisted nominations in detail. Each award category will have its own panel of judges, comprised of industry experts and leaders in their respective fields. Based on their assessments, the panels will select candidates to move forward to the interview stage. During the interviews, judges will conduct an in-depth evaluation of each nominee’s leadership skills, achievements, and potential. 
  • Who will be judging the New Zealand Leadership Awards?

    The judging for the New Zealand Leadership Awards will be conducted by a panel of high-calibre individuals. We want to ensure that the judging process is credible and that all finalists and winners are chosen by a diverse and experienced group of professionals.  
  • Can I nominate someone who is not currently working in an organisation?

    Yes! The New Zealand Leadership Awards celebrate leadership in all forms. Nominate individuals who have shown remarkable leadership qualities, regardless of their employment status.
  • Will there be any opportunities for sponsorship or partnership with the New Zealand Leadership Awards?

    Yes, we welcome sponsorship and partnership opportunities for the New Zealand Leadership Awards. If you or your organisation are interested in becoming a sponsor or collaborating with us to support this event, please reach out to our team: nzleadershipawards@robertwalters.co.nz