"It's a very popular event and very important for the Asian community," she said.
"The calibre of all the applicants is very high this year, showing the depth of Asian talent across the categories."
The evening kicked off with special performances from Gao Min, the Pipa Performer, accompanied by accomplished violinist Zhi Chen, world-class Chinese musicians.
This year the Too Family Trust presented a new cup for the Best Asian Community in memory of the late Tong Too and his contribution to the many cultures in Hawke's Bay.
Also among the new awards were the Best Asian Tertiary Graduate, to recognise students who have completed their schooling in Hawke's Bay and gone on to tertiary studies.
The evening's most prestigious award, Best Asian Practising Professional, went to Thahirah Jalal. Dr Jalal completed her PhD at the University of Canterbury in electrical engineering.
She has since joined Unison Networks and progressed her career to her current position of asset intelligence specialist.
Dr Jalal said her friends "insisted on nominating" her.
"I just love my work, love to be engaged with and really appreciate the local community."
