Emily Gardner is a young leader working with NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi. As Senior Project Manager, Emily is delivering the SH76 Brougham St Upgrade – one of Christchurch’s most complex and high-impact transport projects.
What does service to the community mean to you?
Service to the community is about contributing to something beyond yourself that benefits others.
How does your work make a difference?
Delivering major infrastructure projects for New Zealanders helps people – by connecting communities, keeping people safer and enabling everyone to move more reliably where they need to go.
What achievements are you most proud of?
I’m really proud of how the SH76 Brougham St Upgrade has engaged with its community and created people centric solutions to improve the community’s experience during disruptive construction periods.
What is your favourite part of the job?
Working with a broad variety of interesting people and learning something new all the time.
What three words would you use to describe your work?
Teamwork, communication, listening.
What advice would you give someone starting their career in the Public Service?
Be genuine, work to your strengths and don’t lose sight of why your work matters. It’s important to remember that it takes a team to get great outcomes, take people on the journey with you.
Te Hāpai Hapori | Spirit of Service Awards
Emily Gardner is a finalist of Te Tohu mō te Kaiārahi Rangatahi o te Tau | Young Leader of the Year Award at Te Hāpai Hapori | Spirit of Service Awards 2026.
The Young Leader of the Year Award celebrates inspirational young public sector leaders who demonstrate exceptional motivation and commitment to delivering for New Zealand and New Zealanders. Winners will be announced on Thursday 1 October.
The awards are made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors Deloitte, ANZSOG – The Australia and New Zealand School of Government and DXC Technology Australia and New Zealand.
