As longlisted projects are assessed in detail, a selection of finalists emerges in late summer. These top contenders represent the full spectrum of New Zealand’s housing—from clever small-footprint apartments and compact urban infill homes to spacious rural retreats and multifunctional multi-unit developments. Finalists are featured in a special issue of HOME Magazine, offering readers a first glimpse of the cutting-edge ideas set to define the country’s design future. Readers then have the chance to vote in the public Home of The Year category, ensuring that community favourites play a part in the final celebrations.