Southland’s emerging talent celebrated at Great South Vocational Awards
Young Southlanders pursuing vocational pathways were recognised at the Great South Vocational Awards, held at ILT Stadium Southland.
25 Sep 2026
The event brought students, whānau, educators and industry representatives together to celebrate the achievements of students nominated by their schools for their commitment and dedication to vocational learning.
Kayden Scott from Southland Boys’ High School was named Grand Winner and received $3,000 to support his vocational journey beyond school. Lara Heiss from Blue Mountain College was named Grand Runner-Up and received $1,000.
Six students received NZAS Highly Commended Awards, sponsored by NZAS:
- Nikita Barclay - Verdon College
- Logan Cook - Central Southland College
- Courtney Hargest - James Hargest College
- Lexi Reynolds - Fiordland College
- Dylan Hoogeveen - Southland Boys’ High School
- Jaxon Jones - James Hargest College
The Emerging Talent Awards recognised Libby Aitken Stevens from Verdon College, Charlie Carson from Aurora College, Holly Duston from James Hargest College, Byron McClintock from Māruawai College, Paula Power from Menzies College and Sam Ussher from Northern Southland College.
Bright Futures Awards went to Esme Duncan from Fiordland College, Maddison Elliot from Menzies College, Max Galt from Aurora College, Lilly Goodwright from Central Southland College, Joel Kirby from Māruawai College, Maddie Martin from Waiau Area School and Kaitlyn Brady from St Peters College.
Together, the recipients reflect the range of vocational talent developing across Southland. The awards recognise the skills and confidence students are building through their chosen pathways, and the support of the schools, whānau and communities behind them.
Congratulations to every award recipient and nominee and thanks NZAS for its support of the Highly Commended Awards.
