Better business
Canterbury innovators stand out in this year’s sustainable business awards.
Canterbury is making its mark in Aotearoa’s sustainability landscape, with a strong showing among the finalists for the 2025 Sustainable Business Awards. From schools to construction firms, and manufacturing to legal and social enterprises, the region is demonstrating practical approaches to environmental and social responsibility.
Now in their 23rd year, the Sustainable Business Awards are New Zealand’s longest-running recognition of organisations and individuals driving the transition to a regenerative, low-carbon, circular economy. This year’s ‘Next List’ includes 119 finalists nationwide, highlighting the growing momentum of sustainability across sectors.
Several Canterbury-based organisations were among the finalists, namely:
- Seismic Shift (Built Environment): Reducing carbon in construction through innovative design and materials.
- Nezo (Built Environment): Applying regenerative design practices in building projects.
- Rangi Ruru Girls’ School (Education): Embedding sustainability into learning and campus operations.
- NE Tech (Food & Beverage): Innovating production and distribution for more sustainable outcomes.
- Medsalv (Manufacturing): Transforming waste into useful materials through circular manufacturing approaches.
- Ekos (Sustainability Services): Supporting organisations to measure and reduce environmental impact.
- Steven Moe & Parry Field Lawyers (Social housing, legal structures, content): Combining legal guidance, social-housing initiatives, and communication to foster sustainable communities.
These Canterbury finalists illustrate a range of practical, locally grounded sustainability initiatives, showing how businesses and organisations across the region are contributing to a more resilient, low-carbon future.
See sustainable.org.nz for more information about all the finalists as well as the list of winners, which were announced on 20 November.
