AUCKLAND, Today: We want to sincerely apologise for publishing the 2026 AXIS Awards results ahead of time. We understand how disappointing this was on such an important night for the industry, and we are genuinely sorry for the impact on the event and everyone involved.
The Commercial Communications Council (Comms Council) last night celebrated the best creative work in Aotearoa New Zealand at the 2026 AXIS Awards, held at the Viaduct Event Centre in Tāmaki Makaurau.
This year’s winners demonstrated exceptional creative excellence across all categories, with campaigns that not only captivated audiences but also showcased the strategic thinking, cultural insight, and technical mastery that defines New Zealand advertising at its finest.
The winning work reflected a diverse range of creative approaches, from powerful storytelling that resonates with local communities to innovative executions that push the boundaries of the craft.
Major Award Winners:
- Grand AXIS: The Māori Roll Call – Motion Sickness and Whānau Ora
- Craft Grand AXIS: Booze Maths – The Sweetshop and Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency
- Agency of the Year: Motion Sickness
- Production Company of the Year: The Sweetshop
- Client of the Year: Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency
The ceremony also recognised Judy Thompson with the Outstanding Contribution Award, honouring her significant impact on the advertising industry in Aotearoa New Zealand, over decades as one of our most talented agency Producers.
Gary Steele, Chairperson of the Creative Council and Chief Creative Officer at McCann Aotearoa, presided over his final awards ceremony in the role. Under his leadership, the AXIS Awards have continued to set the benchmark for creative excellence in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Gary said, “Last night we gathered as a creative community to celebrate the best of Aotearoa. Work that makes us proud, work that makes us jealous and the work that pushes us forward as an industry.
“It was an evening of celebration of creativity that shows the rest of the world what we can do from this tiny strip of land we call home.”
The 2026 AXIS Awards celebrated campaigns that moved people, pushed creative boundaries, and demonstrated the exceptional talent within New Zealand’s advertising industry.
For more information about the AXIS Awards and this year’s winners, visit commscouncil.nz or follow the Comms Council social channels.
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