Finalists for the 2024 iSANZ Awards announced

The finalists for the 2024 iSANZ Awards, which honour achievements in cybersecurity and information security across New Zealand, have been announced.

The awards have been a significant fixture in the New Zealand cybersecurity landscape for a decade, shining a light on the individuals and organisations committed to defending the nation's digital infrastructure.

Kendra Ross, Chair of the iSANZ Board, expressed admiration for the dedication shown by the entrants. "We're continually inspired by the talent and passion displayed by all our entrants and finalists. Their work is critical in ensuring the safety of the nation's digital networks, economy, and people, and it's essential that we acknowledge their contributions to society," acknowledged Ross.

She further commented on the broader implications of the awards. "The significance of the iSANZ awards goes beyond accolades. They remind us all of the relentless effort required to defend our digital spaces and the importance of fostering a strong cybersecurity culture in New Zealand," explained Ross.

The categories and finalists for the 2024 iSANZ Awards were revealed, recognising various entities and individuals for their contributions. Under 'Security Project or Security Awareness Initiative of the Year', nominees include Kiwibank for its 'Me Māia – Rise to the Challenge: Cultivating a Security-Aware Workforce' initiative, New Zealand Automobile Association with its 'Security Uplift' project, Trade Me's 'Scamhammer' initiative, and CertNZ's 'Exposed - Own Your Online' consumer campaign.

Nominated for 'Security Company of the Year' are Bastion Security Group, Layer 9 Information Security, and Kordia Group.

The nominations for 'Security Team of the Year' include Fidelity Life's Cyber Guardians of Trust, the Vector Cyber Security Team, and the Air New Zealand Cyber & Identity Tribe.

In contention for 'Start-up or New Business of the Year' are Qubit Cyber, CyberTeam, and CyberSeeker.

Individuals nominated for 'Cybersecurity Leader of the Year' are Paul Connolly from Kiwibank, Laura Ross from One NZ, and Dean Navarro Jr from Fidelity Life.

'Up-and-coming Cybersecurity Star of the Year' nominees are Jonnie Prentice from Callaghan Innovation, Zack Molloy from BNZ, and Rachel Parangi from Northpower.

A special Hall of Fame category will honour a person, event, or organisation, acknowledged at a gala awards ceremony in Wellington on 13 November.