New Zealand's burgeoning hydrogen industry is set for a major celebration with the announcement of 19 finalists for the Aotearoa Hydrogen Awards 2025. The awards aim to honour the exceptional achievements of organizations and individuals who are pioneering hydrogen's role in the nation's low-emissions future.From a competitive pool of 46 nominations, the finalists represent the pinnacle of innovation, leadership, and commitment across industry, government, and academia.

The awards are a key initiative to showcase and encourage the development of a hydrogen-powered economy, a critical component of New Zealand's broader decarbonisation strategy.Hydrogen, particularly green hydrogen produced from renewable energy, is seen as a vital tool for reducing emissions in hard-to-abate sectors like heavy transport and industrial processes. The judges, an independent panel of esteemed figures including former Climate Change Commission Chair Dr. Roderick Carr, noted the impressive calibre and depth of the nominations received. 

Transport Sector Leaders Honoured for Innovation: Highlighting the significant progress in a key sector, three leaders in road transport have already been recognised for their groundbreaking work in zero-emission technology.

TR Group received the Hydrogen Transport Award for its leadership in deploying low- and zero-emissions heavy vehicles. With a fleet of 20 hydrogen trucks already on the road and plans for expansion, TR Group is demonstrating a practical pathway to decarbonizing the heavy freight industry.

Global Bus Ventures (GBV) earned the Innovation Excellence Award. The company was celebrated for two major feats: designing and building the very first hydrogen fuel cell truck in New Zealand and developing world-first hydrogen-powered chase boats for the America’s Cup, showcasing Kiwi ingenuity on a global stage.

HW Richardson Group’s (HWR Hydrogen) secured the Our People Award for its outstanding commitment to workforce development. Recognising that technology is only as good as the people who operate and maintain it, HWR has implemented a hands-on training approach, ensuring that drivers, mechanics, and engineers are equipped with the skills needed for the hydrogen transition.

These accolades underscore the tangible progress being made in applying hydrogen technology to solve real-world emissions challenges. The success of these companies not only reduces carbon footprints but also builds a skilled workforce and a domestic ecosystem essential for long-term growth in the clean energy sector.

The Aotearoa Hydrogen Awards serve as a crucial platform to celebrate these milestones and inspire further investment and vision as New Zealand continues to build and benefit from a decarbonized economy.