EcoReef® is proud to announce its win in the Excellence in Concrete Innovation category at the 2025 Concrete Construction Awards, recognising the successful installation of the EcoReef® erosion solution at River Road, Ākitio in the Tararua District.
Developed through a collaborative effort between a local inventor, contractor, and council, the project addressed severe erosion challenges along the Ākitio River. More than 1,100 modular reinforced concrete units were installed to restore critical roading infrastructure, improve fish habitats, and deliver long-term resilience in a site of both cultural and environmental significance.
A Groundbreaking Approach to Infrastructure
The judges praised EcoReef® as a transformative innovation in concrete application, noting its strength, simplicity, and ingenuity. The modular, interlocking design allows for rapid installation and long-term durability – qualities that proved essential in restoring a storm-damaged rural lifeline while enhancing ecological outcomes and respecting iwi values.
“This homegrown solution, born from coastal adversity and hands-on experimentation, exemplifies the creative potential of concrete when paired with practical insight and community collaboration,” the judges noted. “A transformative project with national relevance and future-facing impact.”
Project Team
The award-winning project was delivered by a dedicated team including:
- Tararua Alliance
- EcoReef® NZ Ltd
- Lattey Group
- Tararua District Council
- Deco Precasters
- Agmar Tools
Celebrating Excellence in Concrete
The 2025 Concrete Construction Awards celebrate innovation, design, construction, rehabilitation, and research in concrete across nine categories. This year, nearly 50 projects were entered from across Aotearoa, with around 275 attendees at the awards event—including architects, engineers, designers, and developers.
Concrete NZ Chief Executive Richard Gaimster highlighted the calibre of entries, stating:
“This year’s entries emphasise concrete’s role in resilient, low-carbon infrastructure and reinforce its position as the durable, low-carbon material of choice for modern New Zealand.”
EcoReef® is honoured to be recognised among the country’s leading innovators and remains committed to delivering sustainable, resilient solutions for infrastructure and environmental protection.