Many times the work of planning professionals goes largely uncelebrated. NZPI believes this work should be celebrated. The NZPI Service Awards recognise planners who have provided continued and outstanding service to the planning profession.

The Gold Medal Award is the NZPIs premier individual award and supports NZPIs strategic intent to foster excellence and the highest standards of professionalism and ethics. The Award shall be made from time to time, but not more than annually, to any individual member of the Institute and shall recognise:

  • Demonstrated depth of experience and knowledge, having a cumulative and constructive effect on the profession of planning in New Zealand over at least a twenty year period, and/or,
  • Demonstrated breadth of experience and knowledge, having influenced either the practice, research or teaching of planning over at least a twenty year period. and/or,
  • Candidates who widely known by the quality of their work nationally; by those

    - who practice planning; and/or,
    - who teach or research planning; and/or,
    - those in the wider community; and/or,
  • Outstanding service to the planning profession.

Click here for full details and to download an application form

The New Zealand Planning Institute Distinguished Service Award shall be made from time to time, but not more often than annually, to any member(s) and shall recognise:

  • A significant contribution over many years to the image and practice of planning; or
  • Original research which has advanced the theory and practice of planning in New Zealand and overseas; or
  • A major contribution in the field of planning and to the affairs of the Institute; or
  • National or international recognition as a leader in the planning profession.


If you would like to submit a nomination for the Distinguished Service Award, please email your completed form to savana.carroll@planning.org.nz by Tuesday 3rd October 2023.

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM