New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis sector had a standout night at the 2026 Cannabiz Awards, taking home several of the event’s top honours.
Puro New Zealand was named Cultivator of the Year, while co-founder Sank Macfarlane was recognised as Business Leader of the Year. The wins follow a significant year for Puro, including its first shipment of New Zealand-grown organic cannabis medicine to the UK under a NZ$16.1 million supply agreement.
Adding to the New Zealand success, Sally King, outgoing Executive Director of NZMCC, was named Campaigner of the Year in recognition of her contribution to the sector.
The awards are a strong reflection of the talent, leadership and growing international recognition of New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis industry. With multiple New Zealand organisations and individuals recognised among the region’s leading operators, it was a night worth celebrating.
The full list of winners:
Best Education/Engagement Initiative: The Duty of Care Education Series by Medical Cannabis Australia
Hemp Product of the Year: HemPanel
Cultivator of the Year: Puro New Zealand
Start-up/Launch of the Year: Golden Days Cultivators
Best Use of Technology: Immediate Doctor Consultations by Alternaleaf
Nurse of the Year: Deb Ranson, The New Clinic
Best Place to Work: RAYS Wellness
Prescribing Healthcare Practitioner of the Year: Dr John Teh, PlantMed
Clinic of the Year: Wildleaf Clinic
Dispensary/Pharmacy of the Year: GreenEase
Campaigner of the Year: Sally King, NZMCC
Industry Collaboration: Kristin Viccars, Dr Teresa Nicoletti & inaugural Medicinal Cannabis Council Australia board
Manufacturer of the Year: ECS Botanics
Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year: Leafio
Best Use of Data: CANN-RELIEF by Southern Cross University
Cannabiz Award for Innovation: Hale Farm
Business Leader of the Year: Sank Macfarlane, Puro New Zealand
Company of the Year: RAYS Wellness