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Celebrating commitment and excellence, the 2023 New Zealand Exercise Industry Awards have been presented in a heartfelt celebration of the incredible work done by the exercise, fitness and wellness industry.

Hosted by Exercise New Zealand at the AUT City Campus in Auckland last Saturday (25th November), the event spotlighted those who help more people in New Zealand to engage in physical activities and reap the benefits of staying active.

A Reflection of the Industry's Spectrum
Commenting on the awards, ExerciseNZ Chief Executive, Richard Beddie advised “from community initiatives to individual excellence and facility achievements, each category underscores a unique aspect of the exercise sector.

“These awards honour those who have made a significant impact on the lives of many, ensuring that exercise is accessible and enjoyable for all.”

2023 Award Winners

Community Award
Leisurelys

Leadership Award
Abby Strong

Te Piki Oranga Award
Whitirau Cross100

ExerciseNZ Award
Peter Fraser

REPs Award
Kirstyn Campbell

A Showcase of Leadership - Educator Award
Mish Wright

Te Mahi Ako - Te Iti Kahurangi Award
Industrial Fitness Queenstown

Te Mahi Ako Manukura Award
John Mainu’u

YogaNZ Award
Pooja Maddela

Group Exercise Instructor - Own Choreography
Nikki Williams

Group Exercise Instructor - Pre-Choreographed
Marwin Silerio

Yoga Teacher of the Year
Reha Kumar

Group Trainer of the Year
Caren Van Gastel

Student of the Year
Jacinda Chisholm

Up and Coming Personal Trainer of the Year
Saskia Jordan

Personal Trainer of the Year
Donna Thomas

Studio Facility of the Year
Bad Ass Training

Franchise Facility of the Year
Flex Fitness Howick

Independent Facility of the Year
ReDefined WellBeing Hub, Papamoa

Chain Facility of the Year
Tepid Baths, Auckland

Supreme Facility of the Year
ReDefined WellBeing Hub

Showcasing Diverse and Inclusive Leaders
Among the standout accolades, Whitirau Cross100 received the Te Piki Oranga Award for their remarkable integration of kaupapa Māori, creating an inclusive space that celebrates cultural richness and encourages holistic wellness.

Jacinda Chisholm, honoured as the Student of the Year, made a significant impact in the industry with her academic excellence and practical application, impressing judges with her adept client engagement and insightful business acumen.

The Supreme Facility of the Year title was awarded to Redefined Wellbeing Hub, recognised for their innovative approach, including their onboarding philosophy enriched with te reo and Māori principles, demonstrating a strong focus on team unity and member experience.

Donna Thomas, awarded as Personal Trainer of the Year, is recognised for her exceptional professionalism and deep client connections. Her approach stood out for incorporating the holistic concept of Te whare tapa whā, emphasising not just physical wellbeing (taha tinana) but also spiritual (taha wairua), mental and emotional (taha hinengaro), and family and social wellbeing (taha whānau).

This comprehensive approach underpins her client-coach relationships, building trust and empowerment.

A Night to Remember
The 2023 Exercise Industry Awards was a night that celebrated not only the winners but the spirit of commitment, innovation, and inclusivity that permeates the exercise industry.

These awards serve as a reminder of the pivotal role exercise plays in enhancing the health and well-being of communities across New Zealand.

Image: Winners at the 2023 New Zealand Exercise Industry Awards (top, credit: Gerard Shacklock Photography), award winner Mish Wright (middle) and the team from New Zealand's Supreme Facility of the Year, Redefined Wellbeing Hub (below).

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