A spectacular celebration of New Zealand's exercise industry

The Exercise New Zealand Industry Awards 2024 were held on Saturday 30th November in Auckland. These awards have been running for 20 years and are designed to celebrate the amazing work that happens within the exercise community all around Aotearoa - with over a dozen categories for both individuals and facilities. Having wrapped up in spectacular fashion, celebrating outstanding individuals, teams, and facilities that exemplify excellence in the exercise industry, ExerciseNZ would like to celebrate all those that took home awards within their respective categories. These prestigious awards not only highlight the remarkable contributions of this year’s winners but also underscore the importance of recognising and supporting innovation, community engagement, and leadership in exercise and well-being across Aotearoa.

Supreme Winners Shine Bright

Topping the facility awards, Les Mills Christchurch was crowned Supreme Facility of the Year, a testament to its outstanding service, innovation, and leadership in the industry.

Outstanding Individual Achievements

• Personal Trainer of the Year: Renee Diment-Phillips displays an exceptional dedication to transforming lives through fitness.

• Up and Coming Personal Trainer of the Year: Alexandra Jensen demonstrates incredible promise reflecting the next generation of fitness professionals.

• Group Exercise Instructors of the Year: Sureta Basson (Own Choreographed) and Amanda Senior (Pre-Choreographed) impressed with their energy and skill.

• Yoga Teacher of the Year: Reha Kumar exemplified commitment to teaching Yoga holistically, and to a considerable depth of her own professional development.

• Pilates Method Teacher of the Year: Katie Agnew stood out for her expertise and passion.

• Student of the Year: Braedyn Arbuckle showcased inspiring potential and dedication to the profession.

Celebrating Facilities of Excellence

• Studio Facility of the Year: Bad Ass Training Taupo, led by the passionate and innovative Paula, exemplifies its ethos of "putting the personal back in personal training," offering tailored, wrap-around services like the "Koha Jar" while achieving remarkable growth, community impact, and business success in Taupō.

• Chain Facility of the Year: Les Mills Christchurch exemplifies the ideal fitness facility, combining a well-crafted balance of personal care and automation, a diverse fitness offering, and a standout culture of passion and care, as reflected in their submission emphasising he tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata.

• Facility (Over 400 Members) of the Year: Anytime Fitness Kent Terrace stands out for its immaculate design, polished execution of franchise systems, and a customer-centric approach driven by Craig's clear vision, fostering a diverse and friendly team as they prepare to expand in 2025.

Special Recognition and Community Impact

• Te Piki Oranga Award: Hype Fitness, Lower Hutt, honoured for its commitment to hauora within the community.

• Te Mahi Ako Awards: Tūtaki Youth Inc. / Lions Den, Taranaki, took home the Te Iti Kahurangi Award, and Sam Stacey, recognised with the Manukura Award, for their leadership in Māori-focused fitness initiatives.

• Community Award: Empower Me Fitness, Dunedin, recognised for building connections and inspiring healthier lives.

• Leadership Award: Morgan Geldard showcased exemplary guidance and vision in fitness.

• Educator Award: Kirstyn Campbell celebrated for her impactful teaching.

Special Awards Reflecting Contribution to the industry

• YogaNZ Council Award: Heather Robinson

• Pilates Aotearoa Council Award: Tania Huddart

• ExerciseNZ Award: Abby Strong

• REPs Award: Mark Hurdle, CityFitness

These awards highlight the incredible talent and dedication within the exercise industry here in Aotearoa. ExerciseNZ extends its congratulations to all winners, finalists, and entrants. The passion, innovation, and community focus shown across the board reflect the industry’s commitment to enhancing New Zealander’s health and well-being.

The 2024 Exercise New Zealand Industry Awards have once again showcased the exceptional talent, dedication, and innovation within the exercise community here in Aotearoa. From outstanding individuals transforming lives to facilities leading with excellence and inclusivity, this year’s winners embody the values of health, well-being, and community engagement. ExerciseNZ celebrates not only their achievements but also the collective contribution of everyone in the industry, which continues to inspire and elevate the standards of fitness and well-being across the nation. Congratulations to all who participated, and here’s to another year of excellence in exercise!