Landscaper makes prestigious award final

Tauranga horticulture professional Zoë Taylor was a finalist in the 2025 Wāhine Toa Award – a prestigious category at the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Excellence Awards, recognising the achievements of tradeswomen across New Zealand’s construction, building and infrastructure sectors

Currently working as a Team Gardener at Arvida Bethlehem Country Club, Taylor leads a five-person team maintaining 172 villas cross the retirement village’s expansive grounds. The role draws on her broad skillset in horticulture, landscaping, landscape design and training.

“No two days are ever the same,” she says. “We work with team members who hold Primary ITO Amenity Horticulture Certifications and bring diverse experience to our gardens and landscapes. I am proud to be part of such a thriving, supportive team.”

An award for exceptional tradeswoman

The Wāhine Toa Award recognises tradeswomen who demonstrate exceptional standards in their craft, maintain rigorous health and safety practices, and act as mentors and role models for others. It also acknowledges those who go beyond their day job to encourage and inspire others – something Taylor has long made a personal commitment.

“Throughout my career, I have strived to deliver the highest standards of workmanship, champion safe work practices and support others through mentoring and training,” says Taylor.

But her impact extends well beyond the worksite. "I am passionate about giving back to my community volunteering with organisations that promote women in trades, supporting school career visits to inspire the next generation, and actively participating in local sports and team events,” she says. “I believe that leading by example, both professionally and personally, helps open doors for more wāhine to succeed and thrive in our industry.”

Paving the way

Judged by an expert panel and supported by principal sponsor Naylor Love, the NAWIC Excellence Awards are among the most respected accolades in the sector. The Wāhine Toa

category specifically highlights the outstanding contributions of qualified tradeswomen, many of whom are paving the way for a more inclusive and representative industry.

Taylor’s nomination recognises her technical excellence and leadership, as well as her commitment to creating opportunities for others – particularly young women considering a future in the trades.

Strong competition

The 2025 NAWIC Awards was held in Auckland on 25 July, with finalists representing a cross-section of New Zealand’s construction and infrastructure workforce. Sam Burrow, who works as an Asphalt Plant Operator for Downer, took home the Wāhine Toa Award and was described by NAWIC as “a master of her trade and a role model for the next generation.”

“With over two decades in the industry, Sam has worked across Aotearoa and the Pacific, taking on physically demanding roles in challenging environments with humility, skill, and resolve,” said the NAWIC judges. “For six years, she [has stepped] in, so others could rest – putting her own life on hold to support the wider team.

"Now, leading the Invercargill asphalt plant, Sam runs a high-performing site with meticulous attention to detail and a deep commitment to safety. She mentors emerging talent, especially young women, sharing her knowledge freely and fostering confidence and capability in others. Sam leads by example, often the last to leave site, ensuring every detail is right.”

Even though Taylor didn’t win, she described being nominated as an “incredible experience”.

"I’m already looking ahead to next year’s 30th anniversary celebration in Wellington,” she said. “Having representation from our industry present means a great deal, especially as landscapers are often overlooked next to our counterparts in construction, plumbing, and electrical trades.”