Software firm named best in business at the International Business Awards

Shotover Jet in Queenstown has been a boon for Ngai Tahu Tourism. Picture / File

Data automation software provider WhereScape Software was named the Supreme Award winner of 2016's International Business Awards at a black tie event in Auckland last night.

The US and Auckland-based tech firm impressed judges with its ability to turn big data into big business. The firm also won the Best Medium Business award.

Supreme Award judge David Downs said WhereScape had made outstanding progress over the year.

"Their clever transition from a product company to a global sales organisation has allowed them to exploit the global opportunity for data analytics, right at the time when expertise in big data is most sought after."

WhereScape Software develops software for organisations to manage and analyse big sets of data. NZTE chief executive Peter Chrisp said the firm was leading international business from New Zealand by example.

A total of nine other companies scooped up accolades including Ngai Tahu Tourism for Maori excellence in export; Xero for excellence in leadership; Gallagher for excellence in design; GMP Pharmaceuticals Group for excellence in operations and supply; New Zealand Mint for excellence in marketing and Straker Translations for excellence in innovation.

Haka Tourism Group and Timely won for best emerging business, Gallagher for best large business. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the awards.

FOR MORE INFORMATION on the winners and the awards visit nziba.co.nz