recognising ict excellence

The annual New Zealand CIO Innovation Awards recognise individuals and teams who have shown leadership, innovation, 
and foresight in their contribution to ICT and business. Coveted by teams and tech leaders, the CIO Innovation Awards are prestigious and inspirational recognition of the talent the best New Zealand offers. 

AWARDS TIMELINE:

2 March 2026 – Entries and Nominations Open

26 May 2026 – Entries Close

30 June 2026 – Finalists Announced

4 August 2026 – NZ CIO Innovation Awards

2 MARCH 2026

Entries and Nominations Open

26 MAY 2026

Entries Close

30 JUNE 2026

Finalists Announced

TUESDAY 4 AUGUST

NZ CIO Innovation Awards

2026 awards categories

sponsor to be announced

New Zealand CIO of the Year

This award celebrates a senior ICT leader who exemplifies strategic thinking, innovation, and transformative leadership. They will demonstrate innovation and key successes achieved in the past 12 months with an eye on digital leadership in the future. They will also be able to show how technology and digital will enable their organisation’s overall business strategy

Category Eligibility 

  • Open to individuals in the most senior technology leadership position within their organisation (CIO, CDO, CTO, or Head of Technology,  etc.). 
  • Nominees must hold New Zealand residency and be working in New Zealand at the time entries close. 

 

NZ CIO of the Year Nomination Form 

These questions may be completed by the nominee or by someone nominating on their behalf. Where possible, respond based on observed outcomes and examples. Finalists will have the opportunity to provide further details during the interviews. 

Why are you nominating this individual? (No weighting) 

In your own words, what sets this individual apart as a tech leader? 

 

Maximum word count: 250 

 

Organisational Impact (30%) 

Describe the organisation, its strategic priorities, and the outcomes it aims to achieve.  

How has the nominee demonstrated innovation or applied emerging technologies to advance these priorities? 

How has the nominee shaped and led the digital and technology strategy to enable these priorities? 

Provide an example of an initiative or decision that demonstrates alignment between technology strategy and organisational goals, and the impact delivered. 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words 

 

Influence, Collaboration and Change (30%) 

How does the nominee demonstrate leadership and influence across their organisation and the wider ecosystem? 

Provide a specific example showing how they have collaborated, influenced others, or led change to achieve meaningful outcomes. 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words 

 

Innovation Leadership and Impact (40%) 

Describe a specific project or initiative led  by the nominee where technology was used to drive improvement or innovation. 

What changed as a result, and how was success measured or observed? 

Maximum word count: 750 words 

 

sponsor to be announced

Emerging ICT Leader of the Year

This award recognises and celebrates exceptional emerging leaders in New Zealand’s ICT sector –  who are under 35, and are demonstrating outstanding leadership potential.

The recipient will have already made an impact in their ICT career, demonstrated through outstanding initiative and leadership. This could include leading a high-performing ICT team, building a successful technology business, or mentoring underrepresented communities in digital leadership. 

Category Eligibility 

  • Open to individuals 35 years old or under at the time of the NZ CIO Innovation Awards Gala Dinner (4 August 2026). 
  • Nominees must hold New Zealand residency and be working in New Zealand at the time entries close. 

Emerging ICT Leader Nomination Form 

These questions may be completed by the nominee or by someone nominating on their behalf. Where possible, respond based on observed outcomes and examples. Finalists will have the opportunity to expand on detail during interviews. 

Why are you nominating this individual? (No weighting) 

What sets this individual apart as an emerging tech leader? 

 

Maximum word count: 250 words 

 

Career Overview (5%) 

Briefly describe the nominee’s current role and their career journey so far. 

Include the types of responsibilities they hold and where they are demonstrating leadership or growth. 

 

Maximum word count: 250 words 

 

Project or Initiative Contribution (25%) 

Describe a project or initiative with a technology component that the nominee played a key role in. 

  • What was the goal of the initiative and why was it important? 
  • What role did the nominee play (e.g. leading, coordinating, influencing, delivering)? 
  • What impact or outcomes were achieved? 
  • How has the nominee incorporated innovative technologies or approaches to solving problem or creating new avenues of organisational value? 

 

Note: This does not need to be a largescale project – smaller initiatives with clear impact are equally valid. 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

 

Leadership Qualities (30%) 

Based on your experience, how does the nominee demonstrate leadership and influence? 

How do they communicate ideas or bring others on the journey? 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

 

Promoting Technology and Growth (20%) 

How has the nominee contributed to promoting the use of technology or supporting others within the organisation or in the ICT community? 

 

Examples could include: 

  • Mentoring or supporting colleagues 
  • Knowledge sharing, speaking, or community involvement 
  • Improving digital capability within a team, organisation, or community 
  • Championing inclusive or ethical use of technology 

 

Maximum word count: 250 words   

 

Leadership Potential and Future Impact (20%) 

What potential do you see in this individual as a future ICT leader? 

  • What strengths or qualities set them apart? 
  • What impact do you believe they could have over the next five years? 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

 

 

A Generative AI and Agentic AI 

Physical AI 

Sovereign Cloud and Sovereign AI 

Quantum Computing, quantum readiness, post-quantum cryptography 

Next generation connectivity ( 6G,Wi-Fi 6 / Wi-Fi 7, Ultra-fast, low-latency networks, LEO satellite technology) 

Extended Reality (XR) – Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) 

Digital Twins and Smart City Technologies 

Edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT) 

Sustainable and Green Technologies 

sponsor to be announced

Business Transformation through Digital and IT

This award celebrates an organisation that has successfully planned and executed business transformation initiatives by leveraging digital and disruptive technologies.  The recipient demonstrates how digital technologies can be harnessed to drive meaningful and lasting organisational change. 

Category Eligibility 

  • Open to completed initiatives or projects, running for a minimum of 12 months 
  • Vendors or start-ups that manufacture or develop technology for commercial sale are not eligible to enter this category. These organisations are encouraged to nominate a customer who has successfully deployed their technology and achieved measurable outcomes. 
  • Nominated organisations must be operating in New Zealand at the time entries close. 

 

Business Transformation through Digital and IT Nomination Form 

This nomination may be completed by the organisation or by someone nominating on its behalf (e.g. executive, peer, supplier, partner, board). Responses should be based on observed outcomes and experience. Finalists will be invited to expand on detail during interviews. 

Vendor/ Partner Nominations – entries must be centred on the tech-user organisation and the business transformation outcomes delivered, rather than the technology, product, or services provided. 

Why are you nominating this organisation for this award? (No weighting) 
In your own words, what makes this transformation stand out, and what could others learn from it? 

 

Maximum word count: 250 words   

 

 

Organisation & Transformation Overview (20%) 

Briefly describe the organisation and the business context it operates in. 

What transformation initiative is being nominated, and why was it needed? 

 

Include: 

  • The purpose of the transformation 
  • What made it significant or innovative 
  • One or two key outcomes that can be shared publicly 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

 

The Transformation Journey (40%) 

Describe the business transformation initiative and how technology enabled it. 

 

You may cover: 

  • What problem or opportunity the organisation was addressing 
  • The role digital or IT played in enabling change 
  • Key challenges faced and how they were overcome 
  • How the initiative aligned with overall business strategy 
  • What changed as a result (ways of working, services, decision-making, capability) 

 

This does not need to be a full technical or project breakdown –  judges are looking for clarity, impact, and transformation 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

Impact and Outcomes (40%) 

What positive impact has the transformation had? 

 

Describe up to 3 areas where the organisation saw the most benefit, such as: 

  • Productivity or efficiency 
  • Customer or user experience 
  • Revenue growth, cost reduction, or sustainability 
  • Risk reduction or improved resilience 
  • New digital products, services, or capabilities 
  • Workforce capability or engagement 

 

Quantitative measures are welcome where available, but qualitative outcomes are also valid. 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

sponsor to be announced

Best ICT Team Culture & Inclusion

This award recognises outstanding ICT team culture, recruitment, inclusion, and diversity practices that drive team and organisational success. These organisations prioritise recruitment, retention, and training future talent as essential to building high-performing ICT teams. 

The award highlights practices, policies, and strategies that create a modern, inclusive, and open team culture. Successful teams nurture diversity, foster cohesion and morale, and retain critical talent to build a competitive digital business. 

Category Eligibility 

  • Nominated organisations must be operating in New Zealand at the time entries close. 

 

Best ICT Team Culture & Inclusion Nomination Form 

This nomination may be completed by the team itself or by someone nominating the team on their behalf. Responses should be based on your experience of working with or alongside the team. Supporting evidence is welcome but not required. Finalists will have the opportunity to expand during interviews. 

Overview (5%) 

Briefly describe the organisation and the ICT team being nominated. 

What does success look like for this team, and what context (growth, change, challenges) are they operating in? 

 

Maximum word count: 250 words   

 

Team Culture (25%) 

How would you describe the culture of the team? 

  • What behaviours, values, or practices stand out? 
  • How does the team create a sense of inclusion and belonging? 
  • What positive impact has this culture had on people or performance? 

 

You may include examples, stories, or optional evidence such as survey insights or initiatives 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

Team Achievement (35%) 

Describe a specific initiative where this ICT team went above and beyond. For example, how the team culture contributed to innovation, inclusion, or delivering exceptional outcomes. 

  • What was achieved? 
  • How did the team support one another to deliver results? 

 

Team member quotes or reflections are welcome but optional. 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

Summation  (35%) 

In your own words, what makes this ICT team special, and why should they be recognised for their culture and inclusion? 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

 



sponsor to be announced

Innovation Leadership Through an Emerging Technology

This award celebrates an organisation or startup that is redefining innovation by harnessing emerging technologies to create new business models, transform processes, or develop new products and services. The recipient showcases how emerging technologies can drive competitive advantage and resilience while navigating the complexities of evolving technologies and regulatory frameworks. This award recognises excellence in innovation but also has the vision and processes in place to prepare for the next generation of emerging technologies and guiding leadership teams to embrace change and drive transformative outcomes.

2026 emerging technology is defined as one of the following categories; 

  • A Generative AI and Agentic AI 
  • Physical AI 
  • Sovereign Cloud and Sovereign AI 
  • Quantum Computing, quantum readiness, post-quantum cryptography 
  • Next generation connectivity ( 6G,Wi-Fi 6 / Wi-Fi 7, Ultra-fast, low-latency networks, LEO satellite technology) 
  • Extended Reality (XR) – Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) 
  • Digital Twins and Smart City Technologies 
  • Edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT) 
  • Sustainable and Green Technologies 

 

  • Other: please contact the awards coordinator if the technology you wish to enter is not on the list . 

 

Category Eligibility 

  • Open to organisations, startups and digital native businesses that have implemented initiatives or projects, running for a minimum of 6 months. 
  • Open to startups that have incorporated or adapted emerging technologies to enhance processes, products and services. 
  • Vendors or start-ups that manufacture or develop emerging technology for commercial sale are not eligible to enter this category. These organisations are encouraged instead to nominate a customer who has successfully deployed their technology. 
  • Nominated organisations must be operating in New Zealand at the time entries close. 

 

Innovation Leadership Through an Emerging Technology Nomination Form 

This nomination may be completed by the organisation or by someone nominating on its behalf (e.g. executive, peer, supplier, partner, board). Responses should be based on observed outcomes and experience. Finalists will be invited to expand in detail during interviews. 

Vendor/ Partner Nominations – entries must be centred on the tech-user organisation and the business outcomes delivered, rather than the technology, product, or services provided. 

Why are you nominating this organisation for this award? (No weighting) 
What makes this use of emerging technology stand out, and what could others learn from it? 

 

Maximum word count: 250 words   

 

Organisation and Technology Overview (20%) 

Briefly describe the organisation and the context it operates in. 
What emerging technology is this entry focused on, and why was it chosen? 

How is this technology innovative? 

 

Include: 

  • The problem or opportunity the organisation was addressing 
  • How this technology fits within the organisation’s broader technology strategy or roadmap 
  • Why this technology is considered “emerging” in your context 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

 

Emerging Technology (40%) 

Describe how the emerging technology has been applied and what makes this use case distinctive. 

 

You may cover: 

  • How the technology addressed a challenge or unlocked a new opportunity 
  • How it was deployed and used in practice 
  • What was unique or innovative about the organisation’s approach 

 

Judges are looking for real-world application and learning. 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

Impact and Outcomes (40%) 

What positive outcomes has the organisation achieved, or expects to achieve, through this technology? 

Describe: 

  • The most meaningful benefits realised so far 
  • How success has been measured (quantitative or qualitative) 
  • Early signs of value are valid where the technology is still maturing 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

 



sponsor to be announced

NEW CATEGORY: Innovation for Impact and Purpose

This award recognises an outstanding initiative that delivers meaningful, measurable impact for people, communities, or the environment in Aotearoa New Zealand by improving access to, understanding of, or participation in digital and information technology. 

Initiatives may focus on education, digital equity, diversity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, accessibility, or expanding pathways into technology and digital careers. 

Category Eligibility 

  • Open to private sector organisations, public sector agencies, not-for-profits, and academic institutions. 
  • The initiative must have been operating in New Zealand for at least 12 months. 
  • Initiative examples include (but are not limited to): 
  • Education and digital skills initiatives that improve access, capability, or confidence  
  • Building skills for the future digital workforce – emerging technologies and local workforce capabilities. 
  • Programmes supporting use of technology for underrepresented or underserved groups 
  • Community or regional technology initiatives 
  • Use of digital technology to deliver ESG (environmental, social and governance) positive outcomes 
  • Initiatives improving accessibility to technology for people with disabilities 
  • Youth engagement and early pathway programmes into digital or technology careers 
  • Lifelong learning, reskilling, or upskilling initiatives enabled by technology 

 

Innovation for Impact and Purpose Nomination Form 

These questions may be completed by the nominee or by someone nominating on their behalf. Where possible, respond based on observed outcomes and examples. Finalists will have the opportunity to expand the details during the interviews. 

Vendor/ Partner Nominations – entries must be centred on the tech-user experience and the outcomes delivered, rather than a technology or product provided. 

Purpose and Overview (5%) 

In a few sentences, describe the initiative and why it exists.  

What need/s and objectives does it address, and what are the main impact goals? 

 

Maximum word count: 250 words   

 

Partnerships (10%) 

Tell us about any groups, organisations, or partners the initiative works with.  

How do they support the initiative? 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

Impact (40%) 

What difference has the initiative made?  

 

Please describe the impact on 1 or more of the following: 

  • People – who have benefited and how? 
  • Organisation – what positive changes have you seen? 
  • Community – how has the wider community been strengthened? 
  • Planet – What environmental or sustainability impacts have been achieved 
  • Social value –How has the initiative aligned with purpose led objectives 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

Participant Quote (15%) 

Share a short quote from a participant, partner, or community member about the impact the initiative has created.  

 

Maximum word count: 100 words   

 

 

Summation (30%) 

Why do you believe the initiative should be recognised as a model for others? 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

 

sponsor to be announced

Excellence in Customer Value

This award celebrates technology teams that redefine customer engagement, delivering increased levels of customer value and experience through a refreshed approach to user engagement. By prioritising user needs and fostering meaningful engagement, they set a benchmark for excellence in creating lasting customer value. 

Category Eligibility 

  • Open to implemented initiatives or projects, running for a minimum of 12 months 
  • Vendors or start-ups that manufacture or develop technology for commercial sale are not eligible to enter this category. These organisations are encouraged to nominate a customer who has successfully deployed their technology and achieved measurable outcomes. 
  • Nominated organisations must be operating in New Zealand at the time entries close. 

 

Excellence in Customer Value Nomination Form 

This nomination may be completed by the organisation or by someone nominating on its behalf (e.g. executive, peer, supplier, partner, board). Responses should be based on observed outcomes and experience. Finalists will be invited to expand in detail during interviews. 

Vendor/ Partner Nominations – entries must be centred on the tech-user organisation and the business outcomes delivered, rather than the technology, product, or services provided. 

Why are you nominating this organisation for Excellence in Customer Value? 

What makes their approach stand out, and what could others learn from it? 

 

Maximum word count: 250 words   

 

Organisation and Customer Value Overview (10%) 

Briefly describe the organisation and how it creates value for its customers. 

 

Include: 

  • Briefly describe the organisation and the context it operates in. 
  • What customer value means in the context of this entry. 
  • The initiative or approach being nominated and why it mattered 

 

Maximum word count: 500 words   

 

The Initiative (50%) 

Describe the initiative or approach that most significantly improved customer value. 

 

You may cover: 

  • The problem or opportunity from the customer’s perspective 
  • What changed in the customer experience as a result 
  • How innovation, technology, data, or new ways of working played a role 
  • Key challenges faced and how they were overcome 
  • How the initiative aligned with broader business goals 

 

Judges are looking for clarity, customer impact, and intent 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

Impact and Outcomes (40%) 

What difference did the initiative make? 

 

Describe up to three areas where the greatest impact was seen, such as: 

  • Customer satisfaction, trust, or advocacy 
  • Engagement, accessibility, or ease of use 
  • Business growth, retention, or lifetime value 
  • Operational efficiency or service quality 
  • Inclusion or reach into underserved communities 

 

Quantitative measures are welcome where available, qualitative evidence and customer feedback are equally valid. 

 

Maximum word count: 750 words   

 

Outstanding Contribution to Technology and Business in New Zealand

This award honours a high-profile leader from either the public or private sector whose contributions have significantly and uniquely impacted the New Zealand or global  technology and business communities through technology.  

The award recognises individuals at the intersection of business, communities, and technology-visionary leaders whose long and successful careers in IT and technology have driven transformational change in New Zealand and beyond. It celebrates those whose leadership and innovation have created lasting impact, advancing organisations, communities, and New Zealand’s technology growth, and delivering economic growth, societal benefit, and in many instances, international recognition. 

If you know of a worthy candidate, we encourage you to submit a nomination. There are no finalists or finalist interviews for this award, the recipient is selected by the judging panel. 

This award is designed to support peer nominations. You may nominate a colleague, leader, or industry figure whose contribution you have observed first-hand. 

There are no word count limits in this nomination form. 

Why are you nominating this individual? (10%) 

In your own words, explain why this person stands out. What makes their contribution exceptional, and why do you believe it deserves recognition at a national level? 

How does this nominee’s contribution continue to impact and inspire New Zealand’s technology leaders? 

 

Career, Experience and Achievements (30%) 

Outline the individual’s career journey and key accomplishments. 

  • Roles held and progression over time 
  • Significant achievements or milestones 
  • Contributions that demonstrate the intersection of technology and business 

 

Leadership, Mentorship and Professional Impact (30%) 

Describe how this individual demonstrates leadership and professionalism. 

  • Commitment to mentoring and developing others 
  • Support for diversity, inclusion, and equitable opportunity 
  • How they lead by example within their organisation or the wider sector 

 

Industry and Sector Impact (30%) 

Explain the broader impact this individual has had beyond their own organisation. 

  • Influence on the New Zealand technology or business community 
  • Advocacy, thought leadership, or promotion of the sector 
  • Contributions that have helped grow capability, reputation, or collaboration across the industry 
  • International or local recognition 



Why it matters

The Awards are your chance to shine a spotlight on exceptional leadership, innovation, and the positive impacts made across your organisation, the sector or New Zealand at large, through ICT. But the benefits go far beyond recognition. Here’s why entering the CIO Awards is a strategic move for you and your team:

cio innovation awards
gala dinner

The New Zealand CIO Innovation Awards Gala Dinner is more than just an awards ceremony—it’s the premier annual networking event for New Zealand’s technology community.

Join hundreds of the country’s top CIOs, technology executives, and industry influencers for an evening of sophistication, celebration, and inspiration. We’ll be recognising the individuals and teams who have leveraged technology to drive significant business transformation, deliver exceptional value, and pioneer genuine innovation.

Why it matters

The Awards are your chance to shine a spotlight on exceptional leadership, innovation, and the positive impacts made across your organisation, the sector or New Zealand at large, through ICT. But the benefits go far beyond recognition. Here’s why entering the CIO Awards is a strategic move for you and your team:

Register your interest

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