Project and people excellence recognised in 2026 CCNZ Awards

Three major infrastructure projects delivered by Higgins and Brian Perry Civil, along with an individual achievement from one of Brian Perry Civil’s rising leaders, have been recognised in the 2026 Civil Contractors New Zealand (CCNZ) awards.

The Kaiwaikawe Wind Farm Civil Balance of Plant project, Rangiuru Business Park – SH2 Interchange, and Seaview Wharf Energy Resilience Project have all been named finalists in the CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards, recognising outstanding project delivery across renewable energy, transport infrastructure and marine construction. Brian Perry Civil Senior Ground Engineering Estimator Rebecca Staples has also been named a finalist for the 2026 Z Energy Personal Improvement Award.

Delivered by Higgins, Brian Perry Civil and a strong network of partners for Mercury, the Kaiwaikawe Wind Farm Civil Balance of Plant project has been recognised in Category 4 ($20M–$100M Projects). Constructed in one of New Zealand’s most challenging renewable energy environments on Northland’s Kauri Coast, the project involved 750,000 cubic metres of earthworks, 15 kilometres of internal roading and 12 of the country’s largest wind turbine foundations. Once operational, the wind farm will generate enough renewable electricity to power around 27,000 homes. The project also achieved an exceptional safety record, recording zero Lost Time Injuries and zero Medical Treatment Injuries across more than 155,000 exposure hours.

Also recognised in Category 4 is Higgins’ Rangiuru Business Park – SH2 Interchange project, delivered in partnership with Quayside Properties, Bloxam Burnett & Olliver, iwi partners, local suppliers and the wider project team. Constructed alongside a live expressway, the $50 million project included a new diamond interchange on the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road, a bridge over SH2, stormwater infrastructure, safety improvements and shared path realignment. The interchange will unlock the future Rangiuru Business Park and support an estimated 4,000 jobs in the Bay of Plenty.

Brian Perry Civil’s Seaview Wharf Energy Resilience Project for CentrePort Wellington has also been recognised in Category 4. As the sole fuel import facility for the lower North Island, Seaview Wharf is a critical regional asset. The project upgraded the wharf to modern seismic and climate resilience standards while maintaining operations within a live fuel terminal. Close collaboration between Brian Perry Civil, CentrePort, Holmes and fuel industry operators led to innovative ways of working that enabled complex marine construction to proceed safely alongside active shipping operations. The project also demonstrated environmental leadership, achieving zero environmental incidents while implementing enhanced controls for underwater noise, sediment and water quality.

Adding to the success, Rebecca Staples has been recognised as a finalist for the 2026 Z Energy Personal Improvement Award. Since joining Brian Perry Civil as an Estimation Administrator in 2016, Rebecca has continually developed her skills and expertise, progressing to become a highly respected Senior Ground Engineering Estimator. The recognition celebrates her commitment to continuous learning, professional growth and excellence within the civil construction industry.

Congratulations to all finalists and everyone who contributed to these achievements. We look forward to celebrating alongside the industry when the winners are announced at the Civil Contractors Conference Awards Dinner in Wellington on 14 August.