WT is proud to announce that Shaun de Pontes, Associate in our Auckland office, has been named Construction Professional of the Year 2025 at the RICS New Zealand Awards.
This achievement is made even more special by the fact that three WT professionals – Shaun de Pontes, Chloe Gordon, and Sinclair Zhu – were all finalists in the same category. Having multiple finalists recognised in one of the industry’s most competitive awards speaks volumes about the strength and calibre of our people.
Recognising global standards of professionalism
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is a globally recognised body that upholds the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and technical expertise across the built and natural environments. To be recognised by RICS is a significant professional honour and a reflection of the quality, innovation, and leadership embodied by our team.
Our award winner
Shaun de Pontes, Associate – Construction Professional of the Year 2025
Shaun has earned a reputation as a construction cost expert delivering exceptional results on some of New Zealand’s most complex and high-value developments. Over the past year, he has led cost management for major projects including the $1 billion Pāpāmoa East “The Sands” town centre, The Domain Collection apartments, Pacific Lakes Village retirement community, and the Lakewood Plaza remediation. His innovative approach to value creation, deep technical expertise, and unwavering professionalism have established him as a leader in the field – and now, RICS Construction Professional of the Year.
Celebrating our finalists
Chloe Gordon – Associate Director, Queenstown
A respected leader in quantity surveying and a trusted advisor to clients, Chloe combines technical precision with a people-first mindset. Her move to Queenstown helped establish WT’s thriving regional presence, and her commitment to mentoring and inclusive leadership is shaping a more connected and future-focused construction industry. Among her recent achievements, Chloe led delivery of New Zealand’s largest distillery project, Scapegrace, in 2024.
Sinclair Zhu – Associate, Auckland
A calm, collaborative professional with a sharp commercial mind, Sinclair has contributed to some of New Zealand’s most significant developments over nearly a decade at WT – including Kāinga Ora’s Northcote housing and the Park Hyatt Auckland project. His blend of technical mastery, professionalism, and community focus has made him a trusted leader in the field.
Proud to represent WT excellence
We’re incredibly proud of Shaun, Chloe, and Sinclair – three outstanding professionals whose recognition at the RICS New Zealand Awards 2025 highlights WT’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and integrity across all that we do.
Congratulations to Shaun de Pontes on this remarkable achievement, and to all our finalists for representing WT with pride and distinction.
