4 March 2022 – Aurecon’s Liz Root was honoured at the 2022 Infrastructure Sustainability Council Gala Awards, receiving the Outstanding Contribution to the Sector Award.

The award recognises an industry champion who has shaped a legacy which demonstrates a strong contribution to the creation of a world class, sustainable infrastructure industry.

Liz received the award for her contribution to elevating the maturity of Aotearoa New Zealand’s design and infrastructure sector in sustainability and social outcomes, largely through her previous role as Sustainability Manager on the Auckland City Rail Link.

The multi-award-winning sustainability programme Liz developed and delivered at City Rail Link dramatically reduced waste and emissions, and the first two phases of the project were awarded New Zealand’s first Leading Design ratings from the Infrastructure Sustainability Council.

Championing the incorporation of social outcomes into major infrastructure projects, Liz developed and led a workstream focussed on improving supplier diversity and maximising training and employment opportunities for those traditionally disadvantaged in the labour market, specifically Mana Whenua, Pasifika and other Youth.

This also led to a world-first initiative, partnering with mana whenua to embed Te Aō Māori values into the Infrastructure Sustainability Council framework.

Commenting that it was a real honour to receive the award, Liz says, “This award is fantastic recognition of what can be achieved through collaboration and a vision to improve sustainable and social outcomes. It really validates City Rail Link Ltd’s commitment to sustainability and the positive legacy created for the project, the industry and the communities it will serve.”

Liz has supported asset owners such as KiwiRail, Auckland Transport and Waka Kotahi on their own sustainability journeys by sharing knowledge and lessons learnt.

Infrastructure Sustainability Council judges said that Liz was the clear winner of the category and her enduring contribution to the infrastructure sector in New Zealand deserved to be acknowledged. “Liz has made a lasting contribution to Auckland City Rail Link and the broader community. Her legacy is exceptionally strong.”