Social Value Aotearoa was proud to be a platinum sponsor of the 2026 Best Design Awards, hosted by the Designers Institute of New Zealand, and contribute to judging the Social Good category.

SVA Director Jo Nicholson presented the Purple Pin to the Vanuatu Emergency Warning System, a multi-hazard platform combining live data, citizen reporting and traditional knowledge to protect communities when infrastructure fails. Nearly a quarter of Vanuatu’s population became active users in its first year.

“This project shows what social value looks like when design starts with people. It made room for traditional knowledge, left ownership with the people who run it and its impact is measured in lives protected,” said Jo.

Gold Pin winners included Diary of a Head Injury and Truestock in Social Good, alongside four Student / Academic Social Good winners: Arla Gen II, Remnants, Parkode: Reimagining the Skatepark and RERE.

“These designers show how creativity can strengthen wellbeing and create lasting value. Congratulations to every winner, finalist and team."