PR News
PRINZ

Finalists announced for the 52nd annual PRINZ Awards

The Public Relations Institute of New Zealand (PRINZ) has announced the 55 finalists for the 52nd annual PRINZ Awards.

The finalists have been selected following a judging process led by a panel of industry professionals across New Zealand and overseas, with backgrounds spanning agency, in-house, and government roles. The panel is overseen by two Chief Judges, Tracey Bridges FPRINZ LPRINZ and Nikki Wright FPRINZ APR.

They commented: "The calibre of this year's finalists is exceptionally high, reflecting both the strategic maturity of the profession and the growing impact of communications in complex environments. The judging process has been rigorous and thoughtful, with strong debate around work that demonstrates clear outcomes, insight, and real-world influence."

The awards span 14 categories, including the Telum Media Best Use of Media Relations and the new Best Use of Small Budget for Impact category. Gold award winners in the campaign categories will be shortlisted to take home the PRINZ Supreme Award.

Finalists are invited to attend the 2026 PRINZ Awards Gala Dinner at the Hilton Auckland on Thursday 4th June, where Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards will be presented.

The full list of finalists can be found here. 

Previous story

Meanne Dizerens-Lau appointed Head of Corporate Communications

Next story

HAVAS Red launches EchoWeave

You might also enjoy

Loretta
Moves

Loretta Lui takes helm of executive comms and PR

The global investment management organisation, Franklin Templeton, has promoted Loretta Lui as Director, Executive Communications and PR.

Relocating from Hong Kong to London, she now leads global executive communications for the firm, overseeing CEO communications, core narrative development, and strategic media engagement aligned with the organisation’s business priorities and industry developments.

Loretta first joined the company in 2013 and was most recently Deputy Head of Corporate Communications, APAC. She also brings industry experience from previous roles at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and City of London. 

The
Moves

The Star Entertainment Group appoints Communications Director

The Star Entertainment Group has promoted Jacara Desland to Director of Communications. Based in Brisbane, she will work alongside the leadership team to lead and shape communications across the Group and The Star Sydney.

Jacara brings more than 15 years’ experience across communications and marketing, with previous roles spanning the insurance and financial services, construction, and retail sectors.  

Tonic
Industry update

Tonic continues Australian growth with new client win

Trans-Tasman integrated communications agency, Tonic Communications, has been appointed by Brisbane-headquartered Morgans Financial, to lead PR for its annual fundraiser, Big Dry Friday.

Starting immediately, Tonic will drive national awareness and participation for the campaign, led by recently appointed Brisbane-based Media and Communications Director, Amelia Oberhardt. The work will highlight Big Dry Friday's impact on rural and regional Australian communities.

Amelia said: "Big Dry Friday is a hugely successful and important initiative that has raised more than $9.5 million over the past eight years.

"We’re thrilled to be supporting the campaign in 2026 and helping drive even greater awareness and participation nationally. It’s exactly the kind of meaningful work Tonic is passionate about delivering."