Source: ExerciseNZ
This year’s celebration once again showcased the people, teams, and organisations who go above and beyond to uplift the health and wellbeing of our communities. ExerciseNZ extends its warm congratulations to every winner and finalist across all categories. These achievements reflect not only excellence in your craft, but also the growing impact of innovation, connection, and leadership within the exercise industry in Aotearoa.
Supreme Winner
At the forefront of this year’s facility awards, BodyFix Christchurch was recognised as the Supreme Facility of the Year, celebrating its commitment to high-quality service, forward-thinking innovation, and strong community leadership.
Outstanding Individual Achievements
Personal Trainer of the Year: Sierra Ryland
Up and Coming Personal Trainer of the Year: Jess Fajardo
Group Exercise Instructor of the Year (own choreography): Robyn Proffit
Group Exercise Instructor of the Year (pre-choreographed): Heidi Fromm
Yoga Teacher of the Year: Hamish Kenworthy
Pilates Method Teacher of the Year: Mel James
Fitness Pilates Instructor of the Year: Sarah Mounsey
Student of the Year: Lisa Hartnett
Group Trainer: Bobby (Haizhou) Yang
Celebrating Facilities of Excellence
Studio Facility of the Year: Outfit North
Franchise of the Year: Flex Fitness Howick
Chain Facility of the Year: Les Mills Dunedin
Facility (Over 400 Members) of the Year: BodyFix
Special Recognition and Community Impact
Te Mahi Ako Te iti Kahurangi Award – Buttabean Motivation (BBM): BBM exhibits powerful commitment to growth, upskilling their team, empowering volunteers, and creating meaningful pathways that uplift both individuals and community.
Te Mahi Ako Manukura Award – James McDiarmid (BBM): James demonstrates inspiring leadership and a deep commitment to growth, uplifting others through education, personal experience, and a passion for meaningful change.
Leadership Award – Owen Bisman: Owen showcases authentic, passionate leadership with strong management, community connection, and a genuine commitment to mentoring his team.
Educator Award – Kirstyn Campbell: Kirstyn exudes authentic, confident teaching, adapting to diverse learners, showcasing her strengths, and bringing passion and energy to every aspect of her work.
Community Award – Kate Ivey: Kate delivers a polished, science-backed programme with strong marketing, measurable wellbeing outcomes, and high demand among peri- and post-menopausal women.
Special Awards Reflecting Contribution to the industry
YogaNZ Award – Yoga Education in Prisons Trust: This charitable trust delivers practical yoga and meditation education in prisons across Aotearoa, supporting healing, growth, and resilience. Their mahi helps people make positive behavioural shifts and contributes to safer, more connected communities.
Pilates Aotearoa Award – Abby Parsons: Abby demonstrates inspiring leadership and unwavering dedication, lifting pilates education, strengthening community, and championing high standards across Aotearoa.
ExerciseNZ Award – Ish Cheyne: Ish displays decades of authentic, influential leadership, lifting industry capability through education, mentorship, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed.
REPs Award – Marja Captijn: Marja showcases dedicated, uplifting leadership, championing industry standards, uniting her team, and creating meaningful opportunities for trainers to grow and succeed.
The 2025 Exercise New Zealand Industry Awards once again celebrated the remarkable skill, passion, and leadership across the exercise industry here in Aotearoa. From outstanding individuals making a daily difference in their communities to facilities driving innovation, inclusivity, and exceptional member experience, this year’s honourees embody the very best of our industry.
ExerciseNZ proudly congratulates all winners, finalists, and entrants. The dedication, creativity, and community-minded approach demonstrated throughout the awards reflect an industry deeply committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders. This collective effort continues to elevate standards nationwide and inspires ongoing growth across the sector.
For more information on the Exercise New Zealand industry awards, or to view all finalists visit https://www.exercise.org.nz/2025-finalists/.
