We’re finalists in the Sustainable Business Awards!

Te Hōnonga a Iwi is on the Next List 2026 – an annual list of innovators and entrepreneurs that are finalists in the Sustainable Business Awards.

Te Hōnonga a Iwi Chair Sheryl Blythen says it’s very exciting to be named on a list of organisations that can make Aotearoa New Zealand a global beacon of sustainable business.

We are one of 10 finalists in the Regenerating Nature Award category. Winners will be announced at the Awards night on 26 November.

“We are honoured to be chosen as finalists alongside organisations such as Forest Bridge Trust, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne and Te Tauihu Environment Trust who have been doing this mahi for decades.”

For Sheryl, the recognition reflects the vision of the iwi leaders who encouraged the establishment of Te Hōnonga a Iwi and saw the potential to bring people together to restore and regenerate the local environment.

“It also belongs to the many people and organisations who have backed that vision and helped turn it into something real,” she says.

“Local businesses, schools and early childhood centres, youth leaders, universities and researchers, Paremoremo Prison, disabled people, lifestyle villages, volunteers and community groups have all contributed their time, expertise, resources and enthusiasm to our mahi.

“Te Hōnonga a Iwi has always been about connection – bringing together people who might not otherwise work alongside each other around a shared goal of improving the wellbeing of our natural environment and our community. To have that collective effort recognised by the Sustainable Business Awards judges is incredibly special.”

Sheryl says the organisation is also grateful to the Sustainable Business Network for creating an awards programme that shines a light on the breadth of sustainability work happening across Aotearoa.

“The Next List is a wonderful showcase of the people and organisations finding practical, innovative and collaborative ways to tackle some of the environmental and social challenges we face. We are very proud to be among them.”