Celebrating connections and looking ahead

The Landscapes of Distinction Awards weekend once again proved the power of bringing the industry together in celebration. With that positive energy still fresh, RML looks ahead to another signature event – Young Landscaper of the Year – set to provide the same networking buzz and spirit of friendly competiton

Held across the weekend of 26 July, the Registered Master Landscapers’ Landscapes of Distinction Awards (the Awards) kicked off with an AGM on Friday 25 July, during which members endorsed RML’s revised draft constitution for submission to the Companies Office, a milestone that signals RML’s continued growth and professional maturity. The meeting also marked a moment of change at board level, where, after six years of dedicated service,

Ollie Newman stepped down.

"His contribution has been immense and, while we will miss his voice around the board table, Ollie has promised to continue bringing his trademark enthusiasm (and booming voice) to support future events,” said RML Chair Janet Clarke.

In his place, members were delighted to welcome Charlotte Pedersen as a new board member. Co-director of Espaso Verde in Hawke’s Bay, Charlotte is a staunch advocate for RML and its mission. She believes that one of the most powerful benefits of membership is the trust it builds with clients and the wider public.

“Brand awareness is something I’m really passionate about,” she says. “As Registered Master Landscapers, we’re not just delivering beautiful outdoor spaces – we’re representing a trusted mark of professionalism. I’m looking forward to helping that awareness grow.”

A spectacular awards evening

The 2025 Awards delivered on every measure. The dinner brought together a remarkable cross-section of the industry: competition entrants, members from all over the country, potential new members curious about joining, and the evening’s invaluable sponsors.

“This year, we were especially thrilled to welcome new sponsors alongside our loyal long-term partners. Initial feedback suggests the evening struck exactly the right balance, offering sponsors a platform for genuine connection with landscapers, while also providing powerful brand recognition in front of the industry’s finest,” said Clarke.

With the Young Landscaper of the Year competition now running on alternate years, the Awards dinner was able to focus entirely on the exceptional Landscapes of Distinction entries. Clarke says the result was a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere with more time to network and reconnect.

For members, the evening was a reminder of the strength of belonging to a national network. For sponsors, it offered a unique chance to meet landscapers face-to-face, understand

their challenges, and share solutions. For those considering membership, it provided a glimpse of what RML stands for: professionalism, collaboration, and a commitment to raising industry standards.

Looking ahead to the young landscaper of the year and legacy awards

With the Awards weekend over, RML has confirmed that the Young Landscaper of the Year (YLOY) Competition and Legacy Awards will be held next year, offering another invaluable opportunity for the industry to come together.

These events are about honouring both ends of the professional spectrum – the rising stars, whose passion and talent represent the future, and the experienced leaders, whose contributions have shaped landscaping in Aotearoa. Together they represent the continuity and growth of landscaping across the country.

The YLOY and Legacy Awards Gala Dinner also allows for attendees to network, receive industry recognition, and celebrate as a community. Applications will open early next year, so start thinking now about whether you, or one of your team, should be involved.

Looking forward together

“The Awards weekend proved once again that when landscapers gather, something special happens. Ideas are shared, collaborations are sparked, and friendships are strengthened,” said Clarke.

"It’s a reminder that RML is more than an association – it’s a network of people committed to lifting the profile and standards of landscaping across Aotearoa New Zealand.

“For now, we celebrate the achievements of the 2025 Landscapes of Distinction Awards and welcome the energy of new leadership with Charlotte joining the board. With momentum building, the future for RML and its members looks bright – a future shaped by professionalism, collaboration, and pride in the landscapes we create together.”