2025 Awards Report
The purpose of the RMLA Annual Awards is to recognise excellence in the field of resource management. The RMLA National Committee appoints a subcommittee with expertise in planning, environmental law and technical documents to decide on award winners. The decision on the Outstanding Person Award is made by the full National Committee.
RMLA Outstanding Person Award 2025 - Sally Gepp KC for outstanding contribution to the advancement of resource management and environmental law, in both theory and practice, including through numerous leading roles in significant cases before all levels of court and substantial voluntary service to the sector.
RMLA Regional Award 2025 - Pere Hawes for significant contribution to the growth and development of resource management law at a regional level through delivering the Marlborough Environment Plan with 50 of 51 appeals resolved by consent.
RMLA Project Award 2025 - Maungawhau Tihi Boardwalk (The Tūpuna Maunga Authority, Isthmus Group and Richmond Planning) for delivering an innovative, elevated “floating” boardwalk along the crater rim with minimal impact that protects Maungawhau’s sacred terraces while respecting mana whenua values.
Very Highly Commended Project 2025 - Punangairi Visitors Centre and Dolomite Point Redevelopment Projects (Boffa Miskell and Department of Conservation) for transforming Pancake Rocks into a destination that balances conservation, cultural heritage, innovative design, and community value.
RMLA Technical Documentation Award 2025 - Ngāti Kuia Cultural Impact Assessment (Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Kuia and Kāhu Environmental) for delivering a clear, tikanga grounded framework that voices iwi values, integrates whānau kōrero, and models best practice methodology.
RMLA Publications Award 2025 - Subdivisions Law and Practice (Charlotte Mugridge and Thomas Gibbons) for publishing New Zealand’s first dedicated textbook on subdivision law— a comprehensive analysis combined with a clear, practical and illustrated text, built to guide future reform.
