in:situ 2026 + CAA Awards Gala Dinner
Celebrate excellence. Connect across oceans.
Shape the future.
Join us for a landmark evening celebrating architectural excellence across Aotearoa and the Commonwealth.
An evening of celebration,
connection and recognition.
Hosted by Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects in partnership with the Commonwealth Association of Architects, the Gala Dinner brings together local and international delegates for a special evening honouring excellence, impact and innovation across Aotearoa and the Commonwealth.
Set within an immersive environment inspired by the landscapes, culture and spirit of Aotearoa, this is a signature moment of the conference – balancing formal recognition with a warm, social and distinctly New Zealand experience.
Event Details
Wednesday, 9th September 2026
From 6:00pm
Venue: Aotea Centre, Auckland
Dress Code: Cocktail / formal evening attire
Awards Presented
Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA) Awards
The 2026 CAA Awards recognise architects and students whose work responds to environmental, social and global challenges.
Professional Practice
Lifetime
Achievement Award
Honouring a distinguished architect or practice with a lasting contribution to the profession.
Environmental
Impact Award
Recognising projects delivering meaningful environmental outcomes.
Environmental Award –
IFC EDGE Certified Project
Celebrating projects achieving IFC EDGE certification.
Social
Impact Award
Recognising work that creates positive outcomes for communities.
Education
Student Award
(Years 1–3)
Recognising emerging talent responding to environmental and social challenges.
President’s Award
(Years 4–6)
Celebrating advanced, critical and creative design thinking.
New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) Awards
Also presented on the night are two of NZIA’s most prestigious honours.
NZIA Gold Medal
The Institute’s highest honour for an architect of outstanding distinction and sustained contribution.
NZIA Athfield Award
Recognising a significant and influential contribution to New Zealand architecture.
The Gala Experience
Arrival
Step through a dramatic entrance framed by whakairo, fog and native greenery, setting the tone for the evening ahead.
Dining
Enjoy a locally inspired dining experience that celebrates Aotearoa’s seasonal produce and warm hospitality.
Cultural Moments
Be moved by authentic cultural performances that honour our stories, people and places
Celebration
Live music and entertainment create a vibrant atmosphere that flows into a celebration into the night.