The 2026 Resene Colour Awards jury featured perenial members
Sylvia Sandford (colour expert)  and John Walsh (architectural writer and former Architecture NZ editor) along with new judge LauraGrace McFarland (Content Director of Resene’s Habitat and BlackWhite magazines). The awards also celebrated Resene and their 80th year of operation.

 
Resene Total Colour Master Nightingale Award
The Resene Total Colour Master Nightingale Award, named after the Nightingale family who founded and still run Resene today, recognises excellence in colour and paint use.
 
Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart by TEAM Architects Wellington and Paul Cummack Conservation in association.

The project also won the Resene Total Colour Heritage Tone-e Award. 

The jury said “Through careful research and a clear understanding of the building’s heritage, the project brings the space back to life with sensitivity and restraint. A renewed heritage colour palette, selected to complement the architecture, creates a calm interior that supports contemplation and focused use and demonstrates how heritage spaces can be sensitively revived to provide contemporary context.”
 
“Of particular note is the careful acknowledgement and use of materials designed to enrich the authenticity of the restoration, while the refined craftsmanship elevates the architectural experience. The roof detailing, in particular, is handled with remarkable care and stands as an artwork in itself.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Duck Egg Blue, Quarter Thorndon Cream, Eighth Ironsand, Villa White, Friar Greystone, Gecko, Half Raven, Pioneer Red, Double Stack and Resene FX Metallic Solid Gold.
 
Resene Total Colour Heritage Colour Maestro Award

Massey House by Architecture +

The jury said “Through thoughtful restoration, the distinctive character of a significant mid-century building has been brought back to life, most notably through the reinstatement of its original Resene colour palette—first specified in 1954.
By returning the building to its intended expression while respecting its innovation and craftsmanship, the project tells a compelling story of architectural progress and heritage value. The result is a sensitive and celebratory restoration that ensures this important building can once again be appreciated for its beauty, ingenuity and place in the architectural narrative of the city.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Smoke Grey, Foggy Grey, Pale Cream, Wan White, Double Spanish White, Half Pravda, Medium Grey, Gauntlet, Resene Aquaclear satin, custom: ‘126 Lambton Quay Plaster Colour’, custom: ‘Massey House Blue’, custom: ‘Massey House Maroon’, custom: ‘Massey House Dark Pink’, custom: ‘Massey House Aqua’, custom: ‘Massy House Light Yellow’, custom: ‘Massey House Light Brown’, custom: ‘Massey House Chartreuse’ and custom: ‘ Massey House Pale Blue’.
 
Resene Total Colour Landscape Colour Maestro Award

Ka Mua Ka Muri (Tree Trunk Bench) by Boffa Miskell

The jury said “The work feels grounded in the natural origins of its material, carrying that story forward into a carefully crafted final object. What makes the piece particularly compelling is the way it allows the viewer to sense the journey from raw material to finished form.
The restrained use of colour is highly effective. There is just enough to emphasise the form, while the Resene Woodsman stain is used skilfully to reveal the texture and natural graining of the timber, celebrating rather than concealing the character of the wood.”
  
This project is finished in: Resene Whale Tail, Windfall, Knock Out and Resene Woodsman Natural.

 
Resene Total Colour Landscape Tone-e Award

Yellow Post, Brick Bay by Elliot Western, Oliver Prisk, Andre Vachias, Henry Mabin and George Culling

The jury said “Nestled amongst its surroundings, Yellow Post is at once declarative and harmonious. Through a disciplined use of colour, simplicity of form and a refined response to light, it establishes a confident identity within its setting, without overwhelming the landscape.
Overall, this work is an uplifting and striking presence. The carefully considered colours declare the structure confidently, allowing it to stand out while still engaging meaningfully with the natural backdrop.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Broom.
 
Resene Total Colour Installation Tone-e Award

Into Ocean & Ice: Five Artists Reimagine Shackleton’s Antarctic by The Letter Q

The jury said, “Told through a mix of photography, paintings, illustrations, ceramics and interactive elements, Into Ocean & Ice examines the role South Georgia plays as the gateway to Antarctica, as chronicled by Shackleton’s ill-fated final journey and the Inspiring Explorers Expedition 100 years later. The palette of richly saturated colours underscores the artworks helping to bring the artists’ stories to life in a deeply meaningful way.”
 
“Credit goes to the New Zealand Maritime Museum Hui Te Ananui a Tangaroa for eschewing the standard neutral backdrop usually associated with exhibitions of this type, and instead delivering a synergistic audience experience of the diverse media.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Sebedee, Chocolate Lounge, Poet, Atlas and Gothic.
 
Resene Total Colour Neutrals Tone-e Award

Port Tarakohe Harbourmaster and Amenities Building by JTB Architects

The jury said, “Situated harmoniously within its setting, a highly considered architectural form balances technical resolution with cultural expression to create a layered composition that is both protective and expressive. Subtle shadows move across richly articulated surfaces in a meaningful manipulation of light and material, where a high level of detail adds depth and texture throughout the design.”
 
“The thoughtful use of materials demonstrates a strong understanding of performance: products are deployed in response to wind, salt and other harsh coastal conditions, ensuring durability without compromising beauty.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Element CC and Double Akaroa.
 
Resene Total Colour Education Colour Maestro Award

Ruakaka School New Classroom Block by designgroup architects h+k

The jury said, “This project receives high praise for its confident transformation of an existing building on a modest budget. The use of colour as the primary driver, demonstrates how a thoughtful, strategic use of colour can completely revivify an ageing structure.”
 
“The scheme is bold and unapologetic. What could have been a cautious refresh, instead becomes a spirited reimagining, proving that creativity and conviction can achieve remarkable outcomes. It is a joyful, confident intervention that shows how buildings can be given new life through imagination and commitment.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Christi, Blue Diamond, Lipstick, Sebedee, Turbo, Grey Friars and Sea Fog.
 
Resene Total Colour Education Tone-e Award

Wainuiomata High School Redevelopment by Stephenson & Turner

The jury said, This project as an exceptional example of colour drenching, executed with clarity, confidence and careful consideration. A sophisticated palette has been used strategically to define areas of importance and create pockets of excitement, guiding movement and focus throughout the space.
Drawing inspiration from the local landscape, the scheme reflects a strong sense of place while demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the psychological impact of colour, showing how a carefully orchestrated palette can create a cohesive, vibrant environment that supports both learning and wellbeing.
 
This project is finished in: Resene Celebrate, Ecstasy, Palm Green, Highland and Avocado.
 
Resene Total Colour Residential Exterior Colour Maestro Award

Aro Valley Refresh by Athfield Architects

 The jury said, “Playful, quirky and unmistakably artistic, the project captures the creative spirit that defines Aro Street and the overall character of the Aro Valley. The project feels perfectly at home in its context, adding another cheerful layer to an already colourful and expressive neighbourhood.
Rather than blending into the background, this work enriches the streetscape and reinforces the lively, welcoming character of the area, embracing the Valley’s established social licence for creativity and individuality.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Tangerine, Butterfly, Tulip Tree and Mai Tai.
 
Resene Total Colour Residential Exterior Tone-e Award

Biophilic Glamour by South Coast Colour

The jury said, “The chosen palette highlights the natural surroundings of the home set against a verdant backdrop while giving the building renewed definition and clarity. The transformation offers a striking before-and-after result, demonstrating how carefully considered colour can completely reshape the visual impact of a property.
The contrast between home and setting establishes a clear sense of form, allowing the architectural lines to stand out with confidence. The anchoring stone wall and surrounding greenery work beautifully with the new colour scheme, grounding the home within its landscape while reinforcing its character.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Bokara Grey CC, Double Bianca, Bianca and Resene Woodsman Cherrywood.
 
Resene Total Colour Residential Interior Colour Maestro Award

Roseman Whare by Sunday Architects

The jury said, “The paint scheme works beautifully to amplify the architecture, highlighting forms and transitions while bringing clarity and character to each space. At the same time, the interior maintains a playful quality, with colours flowing naturally from room to room to create a cohesive and engaging journey through the home.
Overall, the project shows how a carefully considered approach to paint and colour can elevate a DIY renovation into a lively, expressive environment that celebrates both the architecture and the people who live within it.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene New York Pink, Red Oxide, Apple Blossom, Florentine Pink, Beryl Green, Despacito, Beethoven, Contour, Cashmere, Quarter Biscotti, Sakura, Tom Thumb and Tulip Tree.
 
Resene Total Colour Residential Interior Tone-e Award

Yarraville Peak by Weaver+Co Architects

The jury said, “An excellent example of colour drenching, Yarraville Peak succeeds in weaving together heritage and contemporary elements to create a cohesive richness through the use of a carefully curated palette.
The transition from traditional features at the front to the modern interpretation at the rear, with colour acting as the unifying thread, carries occupants seamlessly through the spaces. The result is a refined yet expressive interior where the juxtaposition of old and new is seamlessly integrated through a skilful and highly considered use of colour.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Palm Green, Dust Storm, Blue Night, Biscay, Sail, Kaitoke Green, Midnight Moss, Sea Nymph and Surrender.
 
Resene Total Colour Commercial Exterior Colour Maestro Award

ESR – Chromatic Oscillation by Drez

The jury said, “Refreshing and stimulating, this work transforms a large-scale built form into an opportunity for visual engagement. Where many large buildings and warehouses are constructed with little colour or character, this project demonstrates how, through a vibrant spectrum of complementary colours and a composition that creates a strong sense of movement, thoughtful design can bring energy and beauty to otherwise utilitarian surroundings.
The result is a striking intervention that turns scale into an asset, delivering colour, vitality and everyday pleasure to the wider community.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Space Cadet, Aquamarine, Tree Frog, Wild Willow, Mint Julip, Buttermilk, Touche, Tuscany, Merlot, Grapevine, Half Resolution Blue, Daisy Bush, Dancing Girl, Ballerina, Sakura, Splash, Hypnotic, Anise, Aqua, Malibu, Home Run, Reef, Sweet Corn, Calico, Boogie Wonderland and Blue Gem.
 
Resene Total Colour Commercial Exterior Tone-e Award

Totara Store by Annabell Berry Creative Co

The jury said, “Vertical stripes impart a real presence while reinforcing the verticality of the building’s form. The application of colour is precise, visually guiding visitors to the point of entry and creating a clear, welcoming threshold.”
 
“The palette is handled with sophistication, enticing in its softness yet striking in a way that creates a memorable arrival experience. The final, thoughtful touch comes through the choice of colour for the front door, echoing the tones of the neighbouring tree, a subtle nod to the building’s landscape.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Gargoyle, Half Parchment, Mondo, Safehaven, Eighth Parchment and Resene Woodsman Treehouse.
 
Resene Total Colour Commercial Interior Public & Retail Space Tone-e Award

Te Whare Awhi Ora by MODE

The jury said, “Through an impressive understanding of – and skilful selection from – the Resene product range, the project demonstrates a thoughtful command of both performance and aesthetic outcome. The result is a well-considered and highly appropriate application throughout. The scheme strikes a compelling balance between liveliness and restfulness. Vibrant moments of colour and texture energise the environment, while quieter tones provide areas of calm. This approach responds sensitively to the needs of the clientele, creating spaces that support a variety of emotional experiences and uses.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Black White, Natural White, Black, Broom, Resene Cemseal, Resene GP Metal Primer, Resene Aquaclear Satin, Resene Sureseal, Resene SpaceCote Flat Kitchen & Bathroom and Resene Woodsman Black.
 
Resene Total Colour Rising Star Tone-e Award

Denise Jillian Saso

The jury said, “What makes this work particularly compelling is the thoughtful handling of colour, which brings a strong sense of culture to the piece, enriching its visual impact while reinforcing the narrative behind the design.”
 
“The artist has created something that both honours tradition and reinterprets it in a contemporary way. This conceptual approach elevates the piece beyond craftsmanship alone, demonstrating both technical confidence and a sensitive understanding of heritage. Overall, it is a thoughtful, very clever piece that stands out for both its idea and its execution.”
 
This project is finished in: Resene Colourwood Desert Yellow, Colourwood Red Pepper, Colourwood Emerald Green, Colourwood Matai, Woodsman Pickled Bluewood, Woodsman Earthsong and Resene Aquaclear.