Stellar Recruitment is proud to announce that we have been named a finalist in five categories at the 2026 SEEK Annual Recruitment Awards, recognising excellence across our business, our people, and the impact we continue to make across New Zealand. 

As an organisation, Stellar has been shortlisted for Large Recruitment Agency of the Year, Excellence in Candidate Experience, and Outstanding Progress in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, reflecting a year of growth, innovation, and continued investment in people. 

The finalist announcements come after a significant year for the business. Across New Zealand, Stellar expanded its footprint through the opening of our Ellerslie office in Auckland, continued growth in Wellington and Napier, and the successful acquisition and integration of the workforce division of LYNX Recruitment. These milestones have strengthened our ability to support clients and candidates while creating new opportunities for our teams. 

Kymberly Tupai, General Manager Northern Region said, "To be recognised across multiple agency categories is a fantastic achievement and a credit to every person at Stellar Recruitment. Over the past year we've continued to grow, evolve, and invest in our people, our candidates, and our clients, while staying true to the values that have guided us for 20 years. These nominations recognise the collective effort of our team across New Zealand and Australia, and we're incredibly proud to see that work acknowledged by the industry." 

At the heart of this recognition is our commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for candidates. During the award period, Stellar recorded significant increases in recruitment activity, including growth in candidate interviews, client interviews, placements, and business development activity, supported by a 4.8-star candidate rating from SEEK. These results reflect our belief that recruitment is ultimately about people, relationships, and creating meaningful career opportunities. 

Our DE&I nomination highlights the progress made through dedicated initiatives including our first workforce diversity survey, ESG governance framework, structured career pathways, and a continued focus on creating an inclusive workplace where people can thrive. 

We are equally proud to celebrate the achievements of two outstanding team members within our business. Kymberly Tupai has been shortlisted for Recruitment Leader of the Year, recognising her contribution to business growth, leadership development, market expansion, and industry advocacy. Her influence has helped shape a culture that balances commercial success with a people-first approach. 

On her individual nomination, Kymberly Tupai said "I am incredibly honoured to be recognised as a finalist for Recruitment Leader of the Year. While this nomination has my name on it, it reflects the support, trust, and commitment of the people I've had the privilege to work alongside every day. Recruitment is ultimately about helping people and businesses succeed, and I am fortunate to lead a team that shares that passion. I'm proud of what we've achieved together and grateful to everyone who has been part of the journey." 

Stacey Wing has been shortlisted for Recruitment Consultant of the Year, a reflection of her exceptional performance, relationship-driven approach, and commitment to delivering outstanding outcomes for clients and candidates. Stacey Wing said, "Being named a finalist is both exciting and unexpected. I've always believed that great recruitment comes from taking the time to understand people, building long-term relationships, and genuinely caring about the outcomes. I'm grateful to my clients, candidates, and colleagues for their support, and proud to be recognised alongside so many talented professionals in our industry." Operating from Dunedin, Stacey has built a market-leading desk and continues to set the standard for consultative recruitment. 

While these nominations recognise individual and organisational excellence, they are ultimately a reflection of the collective effort of our people across New Zealand and Australia. We are incredibly grateful to our clients, candidates, partners, and team members whose trust and support make achievements like this possible.

Congratulations to all finalists, and thank you to SEEK for recognising the people and businesses helping shape the future of recruitment.