This week is one Havelock North-based businessman Rod Drury will remember.
His online accounting software firm Xero became a $3 billion company and he was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
Mr Drury said the award was a "brilliant" endorsement for his company and he would represent New Zealand at the EY World Entrepreneur of The Year Awards in Monte Carlo in June next year, joining national winners from 55 countries.
Hawke's Bay Chamber of Commerce President Brent Linn said Mr Drury was "inspirational".
"His optimism and track record are a real positive example for Hawke's Bay businesses," he said.