Hawke’s Bay Schools Climate Change Challenge 2026

Prizes and Recognition

Our 2025 winners

A huge thank you to every school, student, and teacher who took part in the 2025 challenge - your energy, ideas, and commitment are helping to build a more sustainable Hawke’s Bay. And to our community partners and judges - ngā mihi nui for supporting youth-led climate action.

First-place – Lindisfarne College

Lindisfarne College’s Green Team led the way with their waste minimisation project, separating kitchen and dining waste for composting, conducting waste audits, and laying the groundwork for school-wide recycling and composting systems. Their project showed strong leadership, data-driven decision making, and real potential for long-term change.

Second-place – Hastings Intermediate

Hastings Intermediate impressed judges with their Sustainable Transport Tuesday’s initiative, encouraging their school community to walk, bike, or scoot to school. Their campaign reduced emissions, built community spirit, and inspired younger students to think differently about daily habits.

Third-place – Central Hawke’s Bay College

Central Hawke’s Bay College focused on education and awareness around waste and recycling, creating displays, videos, and classroom discussions that motivated their peers to take action for the environment. Their project highlighted student voice and collaboration across year levels.

Each of our winning schools received funding support from Property Brokers’ ‘Make a Difference’ Community Fund, helping them continue their environmental journey through new and ongoing projects at their schools.