Aotea Electric Canterbury celebrated a night of outstanding success at the recent Master Electrician NZ Awards for Excellence, where their expertise and commitment to industry advancement were recognised on a national stage. From individual accolades to project excellence, the team demonstrated their impact on New Zealand’s electrical industry.
Gold Winner: Excellence in Project ($1 to $5 million) – AgResearch Lincoln
The night’s top honour for Aotea Electric Canterbury was the Gold Award in the Excellence in Project ($1 to $5 million) category, recognising the impressive work completed for AgResearch Lincoln. This complex project involved the electrical installation across two adjoining buildings and a separate Dangerous Goods Store, with spaces that included an office block, as well as PC2 and PC3 laboratories. The project required advanced KNX light controls, UV lighting, and rigorous safety protocols due to the sensitive nature of the labs. The team skilfully navigated the challenges of COVID-19 restrictions and coordinated within crowded workspaces, delivering the project to the highest standard and showcasing their dedication to quality and precision.
Left to right: Ben Cameron, Stuart Thompson, Stephen Page (Cosgroves), Tim Kennedy, Anthony Bellamy, Curtis Dalton, Brian Auld, Andy Cowan, Robbie Rea
Tim Kennedy Named 2024 Master Electricians Industry Champion
In addition to the project award, Tim Kennedy, Contracts Manager at Aotea Electric Canterbury, was named the 2024 Master Electricians Industry Champion, a prestigious title sponsored by J.A. Russell Ltd. As the newly elected President of the Master Electricians Canterbury & Westland branch, Tim has been a tireless advocate for the industry’s growth and innovation.
In his role as branch president, Tim represents Canterbury & Westland at the National Presidents Advisory Forum, where he brings forward insights and advocates for the region’s unique needs. His influence has also been pivotal on the Association Rules Review Committee and the Appointments Advisory Committee, where he contributed to the selection of the Chief Executive. Tim’s commitment to developing the next generation of electricians is evident in his role as a judge for the Apprentice Challenge, and his dedication to representing the industry at a national level was underscored by his recent discussions with Minister Chris Penk on behalf of Master Electricians. His leadership and commitment have made a significant impact, earning him the Industry Champion title.
Tim Kennedy with his wife Shelley
Special Recognition for David Moon, Mechanical Service Manager
David Moon, Aotea Electric Canterbury’s Mechanical Service Manager, received a special mention for his contributions to the judging process for the awards. Alongside John Knight, David plays a key role in the impartial assessment of entrants, contributing meticulous detail and dedication to the adjudication process. His involvement, particularly in the Excellence Awards and Apprentice Challenge, reflects his inspirational leadership and dedication to upholding high standards across the industry.
Left to right: John Knight, Alex Vranyac-Wheeler (Master Electrician NZ CEO) David Moon
Acknowledging Other National Aotea Group Achievements
The success extended across the wider Aotea Group, with several team members and branches recognized for their achievements:
- Zak Lyttle (Aotea Electric Nelson): Winner, Domestic/Commercial Apprentice of the Year
- Aotea Electric Southern: Silver, Innovation Award (University of Otago, Science III Building PoL Installation)
- Aotea Electric Cromwell Ltd: Silver, Project Under $1 Million (The Rock House)
- SEVEN ELECTRICAL LIMITED: Gold, Project Over $5 Million (Takina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre), also receiving the Master Electricians Excellence Award
The night highlighted Aotea Electric Canterbury’s, and the Aotea Group’s, unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and leadership within the electrical industry, with each award and recognition underscoring their role in driving industry standards forward.
