Young landscaper and legacy awards are back

In September 2026, Christchurch will host the next Young Landscaper of the Year competition and Legacy Awards

Designed for landscapers aged 30 and under, Young Landscaper of the Year (YLOY) is a national event that continues to elevate the next generation of industry leaders. The competition is a rigorous test of practical ability, technical knowledge and professional capability. Finalists complete a series of challenges reflecting the breadth of modern landscaping – from construction and paving to plant knowledge, site management, interviews and public speaking. It is deliberately demanding, mirroring the realities of landscaping businesses today.

For 2024 winner Jarod Anderson, the compressed format was part of what made the experience so powerful.

“It was incredible. Normally you do one type of task for days or weeks at a time, whereas here we did every task a landscaper might be asked to do – plus a speech and interview – in less than 48 hours, so it was a true test of skill and character!”.

TESTING SKILLS ACROSS THE BOARD

That intensity is what sets the competition apart. Entrants must demonstrate technical competence alongside professionalism, adaptability and leadership under pressure.

Registered Master Landscapers Chair Janet Clarke says the standard continues to rise.

“Every year it seems the calibre of participants gets higher and higher, which is testament to the increasing professionalism of the sector and the commitment of our members to developing the young talent in their businesses.”

For employers, the competition represents more than a trophy. It is an opportunity to invest in people and showcase the strength of their teams.

“Supporting a contestant requires an investment in time and effort and we are so pleased to see RML members investing in the future of the industry,” says Janet.

That investment delivers returns. Finalists gain national exposure, build industry connections and return to their workplaces with sharpened skills and renewed confidence. Businesses, in turn, demonstrate leadership and commitment to high standards.

Guillaume Chabbert, who won the competition in 2022, said participating in the competition can set young landscapers up to become “industry leaders”.

“If you are a passionate landscaper, YLOY is definitely for you! You’ll meet a lot of professionals who share your passion, plus the judges want to see you do your best and are really encouraging!

“It’s a challenging competition but the outcome is excellent and, through taking part, you’ll be on the path to becoming one of the industry’s leaders!”

Sean Pearless of Sculptural Landscapes, who won the Outstanding Achievement Award for Leadership, saw at first hand what that visibility can mean.

“It was such a great experience and to come away with the Leadership Award was really awesome,” says Sean. “Sculptural Landscapes is a lot smaller than most of the other companies who put forward contestants, so it was great to put us on display and show the quality of our team.”

In an industry where reputation matters, that level of exposure is invaluable.

Entries for the 2026 competition are now open and Registered Master Landscapers is encouraging young professionals and business owners to consider who is ready to step forward. Full details are available at www.masterlandscapers.org.nz/young-landscaper.

LEGACY AWARDS – HONOURING THOSE WHO BUILT THE INDUSTRY

While YLOY looks to the future, the Registered Master Landscapers Legacy Awards acknowledge the past – recognising individuals in the latter part of their careers, whose long-term dedication has helped shape the industry we work in today.

The Legacy Awards celebrate those who have given their time, expertise and leadership to their own businesses and to the wider landscaping community. These are the mentors, committee members, advocates and standard-bearers whose influence stretches far beyond individual projects. First held in 2024, the inaugural recipients were three figures whose careers reflect a deep commitment to the craft and the profession.

Robert Luijten’s journey began in the Netherlands before he made New Zealand home and established Luijten Landscaping. David Sole – often described as “the man involved with it all” – has contributed across multiple facets of the sector. Chris Goom has championed quality and supported the next generation, ensuring knowledge and standards are passed on.

Together, these recipients embody the purpose of the Legacy Awards – recognising that the industry’s strength today rests on years of commitment, leadership and skill.

Nominations will open soon and members are encouraged to start thinking now about who they believe deserves recognition. Who in your region has shaped the profession behind the scenes? Who has mentored and lifted standards for others?

The future of landscaping in New Zealand depends on both rising talent and enduring leadership. By entering YLOY and preparing to nominate deserving peers for the Legacy Awards, members help celebrate both.