2024 AWARDS WINNERS

Educator, Community and Leadership Awards 

Educator of the Year 

Kirstyn Campbell

The judges praised Kirstyn for her well-established niche and the authenticity that comes from her first-hand experience. Her friendly, empathetic communication style and clear teaching voice make her an effective educator. Kirstyn has built strong collaborations within her field, enhancing her expertise and credibility. Her educational materials not only support exercise trainers but also help the general public improve their knowledge. She brings a strong passion, clear vision, and welcoming approach to her community. Her ability to make complex concepts practical and relatable to everyday life stands out, and her content is professional yet fun. Additionally, her innovative approach, such as adding pre-work for better student learning, was highly appreciated.

Community Award 

Empower Me Fitness

EmpowerMe Fitness have distinguished themselves as a vital force for mothers in Dunedin, delivering meaningful support and uplifting services. By offering low-cost seminars, exercise sessions, networking opportunities, and fostering community connections, EmpowerMe creates an inclusive space where busy mums can thrive. With a mission to empower mothers to move more, eat well, and embrace wellness during demanding schedules, the organization provides simple, actionable tips and motivation. Beyond physical health, EmpowerMe strengthens social bonds, linking mums to local groups and support organizations to ensure a nurturing community and an unbreakable circle of care. EmpowerMe Fitness exemplifies how thoughtful, accessible initiatives can transform lives and build lasting, positive connections.

Leadership Award 

Morgan Geldard

Morgan was praised for her excellent collaboration skills, particularly in creating courses that have a positive impact on the exercise industry. Judges highlighted her genuine and warm demeanor, as well as her strong dedication not only to her role but also to supporting the wider community. They also noted how well-spoken she is, and the obvious clear passion and dedication she brings to leading her programme

Special Awards

Te Mahi Ako – Te Iti Kahurangi Award

Tūaki Youth Inc. – Lions Den Gym & Fitness Centre Taranaki

At the heart of Lions Den’s success are Cain and Dane, whose dedication and expertise have truly set a new standard for workplace learning. They have not only guided individuals like Trint Kelson and Chadelle Bascara to excel in their NZ Apprenticeships and qualifications, but they have also provided a supportive environment where their passion for fitness can thrive. Chadelle’s recent triumphs at the Junior World Championships, earning gold and silver medals while balancing school and training, are a testament to the mentorship she has received at Lions Den.

Cain’s own journey—from aquatics assessor to a highly skilled exercise professional and in-house assessor—reflects the transformational culture fostered at Lions Den. Under Dane’s expert guidance, Cain has been able to achieve remarkable growth and share that knowledge, passing it on to the next generation. This effective and inspiring model of mentorship demonstrates what can be achieved when experience, passion, and dedication come together.

Lions Den doesn’t just train; they build futures. They are setting the bar high for quality education, hands-on guidance, and success in the exercise industry.

Te Mahi Ako – Manukura Award

Sam Stacey

Sam Stacey from Body Pulse, Nelson receives this award for her exemplary professionalism, dedication to the exercise industry, and manaakitanga for her staff and clients. Sam, an Open Polytechnic/Skills Active graduate, earned her Exercise Level 4 Personal Training qualification in May 2022 and has been making her mark in the fitness industry ever since. In 2023, she took on a new challenge, becoming a Te Mahi Ako internal assessor to offer customized training and assessment for her team at Body Pulse Richmond.

As an assessor and manager, Sam is dedicated to creating a supportive and encouraging learning environment for her staff. With Sam’s help, two staff members at Body Pulse Richmond have completed their exercise foundations certificates and feel more confident in their roles as coaches.

ExerciseNZ Award

Abby Strong

Recognised for demonstrating resilience, respect, and a visionary approach to fostering positive change.

As a multi-award winner, Abby has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible, including successfully relocating her thriving business across the country and rebuilding it with remarkable creativity and foresight. Abby’s inspiring leadership has empowered countless individuals and significantly contributed to the growth and vitality of the exercise industry across Aotearoa.

REPs Award

Mark Hurdle

Recognised for tirelessly advocating for REPs, while guiding trainers across the country to register and instills in them the importance of upskilling and professionalism.

Mark is continuously displaying an unparalleled commitment to shaping the future of our industry. Overseeing hundreds of trainers, he goes above and beyond to ensure his trainers meet REPs’ standards—a monumental achievement for such a large team. His dedication, leadership, and vision have profoundly impacted both the trainers they support and the wider exercise community.

Te Piki Oranga Award

Hype Fitness

Hype Fitness has won this award because it goes beyond the conventional idea of a gym. It has created a space where physical fitness meets cultural empowerment. The gym uses initiatives that reflect manaakitanga—care and support for all. It ensures that everyone, regardless of financial capability, can participate in its programs. This model uplifts individuals and fosters kotahitanga, a sense of unity and shared purpose within the community.

But it doesn’t stop there. Hype Fitness integrates te reo Māori into its classes, providing not just a workout but a reconnection to culture and identity. By grounding its services in mātauranga Māori, it empowers its members to embrace both their health and the heritage of Aotearoa/ New Zealand.

Yoga NZ Award

Heather Robinson

Heather has been teaching Yoga since 1996, and working as a Yoga Therapist since 2013. She has a deep love for Yoga, and strong belief in the importance of giving back – to this end, she has given countless hours of her time and energy helping to launch YogaNZ, knowing that establishing standards of Yoga teachers, and a membership body dedicated to supporting Yoga teachers, would help to professionalise Yoga here in New Zealand.

Pilates Aotearoa Award

Tania Huddart

Tania has been instrumental to the development of the Pilates profession in New Zealand since she graced our shores in 2002. 

As a Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher, Myofascial Release Therapist and Pilates business coach, Tania has been teaching workshops and teacher training courses nationally and internationally, and has been described as giving her students “120%” with her inclusive approach to Pilates and education– including through her book “Teach Pilates with Confidence”.

As one of the founding members of the Pilates Aotearoa Council, she has been a driving force for the development of Pilates standards and generous with her resources in shaping the membership going forward. 

Individual Awards

Group Exercise Instructor of the Year – Own Choreography

Sureta Basson

The judges were especially impressed by Sureta’s ability to create and deliver original choreography with passion and dedication. With a long industry career, Sureta has built a loyal following, and her energy and commitment are second to none.

Group Exercise Instructor of the Year – Pre Choreographed

Amanda Senior

The judges were highly impressed with Amanda’s ability to deliver pre-choreographed classes with high energy, excellent communication, and a great sense of fun. With a long industry history, Amanda continues to inspire and lead with professionalism and joy.

Yoga Teacher of the Year

Reha Kumar

Reha Kumar teaches a range of Yoga, including vinyasa, hatha, restorative, Yin, and Yoga Nidra, throughout the wider Auckland region. The judges were impressed by Reha’s commitment to teaching Yoga as an embodiment of vedantic philosophy, with her commitment to the holistic elements of the practice, and her efforts to make Yoga available and accessible to a range of people.

Pilates Method Teacher of the Year

Katie Agnew

The judges were truly impressed by Katie’s session. It was clear that her client trusts her deeply, and she has skillfully guided her client in embodying the Pilates method. Her explanation of the clients goals, particularly the focus on improving flexibility, set a purposeful tone for the entire session.

Katie maintained a seamless flow throughout the class, delivering a comprehensive full-body workout that moved her client through all planes of motion. 

Group Trainer of the Year

Brooke Shepherd Wright

It’s clear that she cares deeply for her clients, and that genuine care shines through in everything she does. Brooke is an outstanding group trainer, and she certainly knows her niche inside and out. While there are many skilled trainers within this space who share similar training and values, Brooke stands out for her unique energy and approach.

One of the things that really impresses the judges is Brooke’s dedication to professional development. Her passion for women’s health—especially in the critical stage of life that many of her clients are going through—is evident in every aspect of her work. She’s not just a trainer; she’s a supportive and welcoming presence for the women she works with, and it’s clear she has their best interests at heart.

What we also appreciate is her commitment to her core values of client care. Brooke doesn’t just follow the trends—she truly listens to her clients and tailors her approach to meet their individual needs. It’s a testament to her professionalism and relatability that she’s able to foster such strong, trusting relationships.

Student of the Year

Braedyn Arbuckle

Bradeyn is passionate about building strong relationships and learning how to effectively influence and collaborate with clients to enhance their fitness journeys. He strives to be a catalyst in breaking down barriers, empowering clients to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Drawing from his own personal experience of living with dairy and nut intolerances, he offers a unique perspective on nutrition that adds significant value to the support he provides. As the world becomes more inclusive of diverse dietary needs, Bradeyn is well-equipped to share this knowledge, helping individuals reach their goals while respecting their nutritional requirements.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Primary Teaching, Bradeyn has also gained insight into the principles of Te Whare Tapa Whā, which he actively incorporates into his approach to fitness. He checks in regularly with them, adapts his approach as needed, and fosters open, safe conversations tailored to each individual’s needs.

Up and Coming Personal Trainer of the Year

Alexandra Jensen

Alex is a dynamic force of energy and enthusiasm, with a deep commitment to helping others succeed. Client feedback consistently highlights her positive attitude, genuine care for participants, and effective leadership as a trainer. These qualities reflect her core values of respect and integrity. Alex has a clear vision for her personal training business, including plans for retreats that embody her holistic approach—demonstrating a vision beyond her years. She has built strong business systems and actively incorporates client feedback to continuously enhance her services. With a passion for ongoing learning and professional growth, Alex stays ahead of industry trends. Her ability to cultivate a supportive community motivates clients to not only reach their fitness goals but also nurture their overall well-being.

Personal Trainer of the Year

Renee Diment-Phillips

Renee is doing incredible work in her unique approach to training women. Her dedication to understanding and addressing women’s health—is truly remarkable. It’s clear that her passion and empathy shine through in everything she does, reflecting strong core values that underpin her programs.

Her deep knowledge of her niche market, combined with her commitment to empowering women, is both inspiring and impactful.

A standout feature of her training sessions is her innovative use of technology to program and communicate with clients, enhancing the training experience and showcasing her professionalism.

In her sessions, Renee demonstrates an exceptional ability to connect with her clients. Key moments reveal her skill in establishing great rapport, adapting her approach to ensure her clients feel engaged and supported, especially when they are fatigued or struggling to connect with certain areas of their bodies. 

Renee is a leader in the exercise industry. With her knowledge, innovative approach, and adaptation to trainer clients both in person and on line.    

Facility Awards

Studio Facility of the Year 

Bad Ass Training 

It really does start with Bad Ass Training’s ethos “Putting the personal back in personal training and the whanau/family feel”. You can tell from all the systems and process that everyone that comes into the care of Paula’s/Bad Ass Trainings care has a full wrap around service tailored specifically their requirements, and when you a struggling financially one of the many (and I mean many) innovative ideas of Bad Ass Training start rolling out such as the “Koha Jar”.

“Talking the Talk is one thing, but “Walking the Walk” is another and Paula completely embodies “Walking the Walk”! From the upskilling element (now a qualified nutritionist) to an expansion of her studio and revenue up nearly 200%, Paula is fast becoming a savvy businesswoman that is taking Bad Ass Fitness to the next level (literally). It wouldn’t surprise the judges if she was shoulder tapped by some large chain for some of her fun innovative ideas.

Taupo residents are extremely lucky to have such a facility headed by an incredible passionate, caring and humble leader.

Chain Facility of the Year

Les Mills Christchurch

Les Mills stands out as the perfect example of what a exercise facility should offer, blending care, convenience, and community in an exceptional way. From the very first point of contact, their member engagement is thoughtful and welcoming, setting the tone for a supportive and positive fitness journey. Their communication is consistently uplifting, with cheeky, well-crafted messages that make members feel valued. Even during busy times, members are greeted with playful reminders that say, “We miss you!”—showcasing their ability to keep people motivated and engaged. 

What truly sets Les Mills Christchurch apart is their balance between automation and personal connection. Through sophisticated systems, members can manage their memberships with ease via an intuitive portal, all while feeling personally seen and appreciated. This thoughtful integration of technology with human care makes for a seamless experience that’s both efficient and warm.

Facility of the Year – Over 400 Members

Anytime Fitness – Kent Terrace

The word immaculate jumps to mind as you navigate your way around the beautiful and well organised gym design at Anytime Kent Terrace (the judges commented they were sure you could almost bush your teeth in your reflection on the polished flooring).

One thing that really stood out was the way Craig spoke about his vision and direction with such clarity. This has resulted in Anytime Fitness Kent Terrace being an incredibly “well-oiled exercise machine”, not only in following their franchise processes and systems but with the way they care about their people. You can tell being customer centric/”friendliness” is a strong core value with the team at Anytime Kent Terrace which is brought to life with their experienced and diverse team. It’s no wonder Craig and the team are looking to expand their business in the future. 

Supreme Facility of the Year

Les Mills Christchurch

Les Mills Christchurch excels not just in facilities but in fostering a community of growth, care, and support. The state-of-the-art fitness environment offers a diverse range of options, making it easy for members to find a workout that suits them. The central location is highly accessible, with free parking and Wi-Fi further enhancing the experience. However, it’s the passionate and caring team behind the brand that truly defines this facility. As highlighted by Tevita’s submission, Les Mills Christchurch goes beyond just the physical space—it’s about creating an environment where members feel encouraged to thrive. The commitment to personalized care and the genuine sense of community sets Les Mills Christchurch apart as a true leader in fitness, making it a standout as the Supreme Facility Award winner.

In every aspect, Les Mills Christchurch doesn’t just provide a place to work out—it offers an experience that’s welcoming, enjoyable, and designed to set people up for long-term success.