2026 Awards

The WoAA Awards were a remarkable success, celebrating excellence in aquaculture.

They highlighted the diversity of roles, exceptional wāhine talent, and a strong commitment to service within the industry. What an incredible depth and breadth of talent we have in the seafood sector in New Zealand. The awards create a powerful opportunity to inspire future generations by increasing the visibility of wāhine in aquaculture. The calibre of nominations received was exceptional. To choose winners from this list of remarkable women was a near impossibility. Each and every nominee we recognise here was deserving of these awards.

We celebrated the winners and nominees at the 2026 Aquaculture Conference held in Nelson. Whilst not all nominees were able to attend, we were able to celebrate their work with the wider industry.

Appreciation goes to the nominators, whose early support demonstrated courage and belief in the value of awards and the depth of talent in the industry.

To the nominees, we congratulate you on your success. You have all done exceptionally well.