Peter Stevens Honoured with Citizens Civic Award for Services to Gisborne’s Construction Industry
Gisborne Citizens Civic Award and merit certificate recipients. Back row from left: Kara Hull, Thaveet Kumar, Judah Theobald, Peter Stevens, Robin Trueman. Middle row from left: Margaret Hull, Deputy Mayor Aubrey Ria, Annie Meredith, Jean Johnston, Val Scott, Pat Seymour. Front row from left: Lindsay Henry, Jim McIntosh, Julian Avisenis, Mayor Rehette Stoltz, Liz Cairns.
We are proud to share that DStevens’ Managing Director, Peter Stevens, has been recognised with a Citizens Civic Award from the Gisborne District Council.
The Civic Awards celebrate individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the Gisborne community. Peter’s award acknowledges his lifetime of service to construction and his commitment to the people of Tairāwhiti.
Peter has worked at DStevens for 50 years, beginning his apprenticeship with the company in 1975. Over that time, he has led the delivery of hundreds of projects across the region – from new homes and renovations to schools, commercial facilities, and community buildings. Each of these projects has contributed to the growth and resilience of Gisborne, providing spaces for people to live, learn, and work.
Alongside his construction work, Peter has always given back to the community in practical ways. He has coached local school rugby teams, sponsored new uniforms, and supported school trips. Following Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, he led DStevens in donating to the Tairāwhiti Mayoral Relief Fund, helped coordinate urgent repair work, and supported his team and their families through the immediate recovery period. These are just some of the many quiet acts of support that have strengthened his connection with the community.
As the second-generation leader of a family business established in 1955, Peter has always led by example. His approach is hands-on and people-focused, and his influence can be seen not only in the buildings themselves but also in the generations of tradespeople, apprentices, and colleagues he has mentored along the way.
Reflecting on the award, Peter said:
“I feel very humbled to receive this Civic Award. It is an honour to be recognised by the community I have lived and worked in all my life. Construction is never the work of one person – it takes the effort of a whole team, and I accept this award as much on their behalf as my own.”
The award was presented by Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz, who commended Peter for his enduring contribution to the construction industry and to the region.
For 50 years Peter has helped shape the homes, schools, and workplaces of Gisborne. This award is a well-earned acknowledgement of that contribution.
We’re proud to celebrate this moment with him – congratulations, Peter!
We would also like to extend our congratulations to the other recipients of the 2025 Citizens Civic Awards and merit certificates. Thank you for your incredible mahi and contributions to the community.
