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Now in its second year, the DSA Outstanding Contribution Award continues to celebrate and honour individuals who have made a lasting and extraordinary impact on the distilled spirits industry in New Zealand. Established in 2024, this prestigious award recognises individuals who exemplify leadership, innovation, advocacy, and dedication to uplifting others in our sector. Whether through championing industry growth, mentoring peers, advancing quality, or advocating for progress, recipients of this award are those who inspire and help shape the future of New Zealand spirits. Nominations are now open! Members are invited to nominate other deserving DSA members who have demonstrated significant contributions to our industry. Nominations must outline how the nominee has:
Click here to view the Terms of Reference and Nomination Form. Nominations close: Friday 1st August 2025. Submit your nomination to: info@distilledspiritsaotearoa.org.nz The 2025 Award will be presented during the NZ Spirit Awards on 15th August 2025, Maritime Museum, Auckland. Let’s continue to shine a spotlight on those who drive excellence and positive change in our industry. Past Winners |
Dr Susan James, Juno Gin
2024 Award Winner Click on Sue's image to read her accomplishments.  Dr Susan JamesDr Susan James is a respected business leader, brewing scientist, academic, and innovator whose contributions have helped shape New Zealand’s craft distilling industry. She was instrumental in founding Distilled Spirits Aotearoa (DSA), serving as its inaugural Chair (2018–2022) and later as Secretary. Her leadership drove key initiatives such as launching the NZ Spirits Awards, securing spirits recognition in the UK FTA, and advocating on regulatory issues like pregnancy labelling and bottle deposits—all while volunteering countless hours. Dr James also organised the first NZ spirits conference, supported emerging distilleries, and has been a tireless advocate for the sector. Her scientific expertise informs projects like the Juniper initiative with Massey University, aimed at building a local gin supply chain. Known for her integrity and dedication, Dr James has laid a strong foundation for the DSA’s future and earned deep trust across the industry. |
Marcel Thompson, Still Magic
2024 Award Winner Click on Marcel's image to read his accomplishments.  Marcel ThompsonMarcel Thompson (Ngāti Whātua, Waikato, Ngāti Koata) is an award-winning distiller, author, educator, and passionate advocate for the craft spirits industry. Beginning his career in 1987 as an assistant gin distiller, Marcel has since become a recognised figure both in New Zealand and internationally. In 2023, he was named APAC Insider's Leading Authority in Gin Distillation and will soon be the first New Zealander inducted into the prestigious UK Gin Guild. Marcel represents The Distillers Institute in Australasia, contributes to Distilled Spirits Aotearoa and the Australian Distillers Association, and served as Head Judge at this year’s NZ Spirits Awards. A champion for education, he has written two Amazon bestsellers—Still Magic and Gin Ventures—and hosts the Still Magic podcast. His dedication to knowledge-sharing continues through his work with DSA and as a gin tutor in Kentucky. Widely regarded as a kaumatua of the NZ distilling scene, his impact on the industry is enduring and deeply appreciated. |
Email: info@distilledspiritsaotearoa.org.nz |
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