2026 Aquatics Awards Finalists Announced
We’re excited to reveal the finalists for this year’s Aquatics Awards — a celebration of excellence, innovation, and commitment across the aquatic sector in Aotearoa.
Waves 2026 - the highlight of the Aquatics calendar - is nearly here, and these awards shine a light on the facilities, programmes, and people who help create safe, inclusive, and inspiring aquatic experiences in our communities.
Aquatic Facility of the Year
Recognising excellence in facility design, operation, and community impact.
Congratulations to our finalists:
- David Hume Pool - Bay Venues
- Hiwa Recreation Centre - University of Auckland
- Trust House Recreation Centre - Belgravia Leisure
- Waterworld - Hamilton City Council
Aquatic Innovation - Operations
Recognising new ways of delivering quality operations.
Congratulations to our finalists:
- Adoption of ILTP Qualification - Ashburton District Council
- Cérge Implementation - Belgravia Leisure
- Efficiency in Action: The Hiwa Performance Story - University of Auckland
- 'Sup Bro: Digital Staff Feedback and Meeting Form - Bay Venues
Aquatic Innovation - Programmes
Celebrating programmes that engage, include, and inspire.
Congratulations to our finalists:
- ASD Super Swimmers - Community Leisure Management (CLM
- Kauora - Kāpiti Coast District Council
- Sensory Aqua Centre, Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre - Christchurch City Council
- Swimsmart SwimEd - Christchurch City Council
We'll also be honouring two outstanding individuals in the Aquatics sector. (But we're keeping these nominations under wraps until the Awards Dinner...)
Lifeguard of the Year
This award recognises a lifeguard whose mahi in and around the water sets the gold standard for safety, leadership, and care.
Aquatics Leader of the Year
New to Waves this year! The award recognises an individual who demonstrates exceptional leadership in the Aquatics sector; someone whose mahi already makes a tangible difference in their facility, team, or community.
Join us for the celebration!
The winners will be revealed at the Aquatics Awards Dinner on Thursday 27 August, as part of the Waves Conference. Don't miss your chance to join us for a of celebration and connection - registrations close soon on 13 August 2026.