Editorial: Hospitality Awards for fine service

Hospitality awards launch 20 May 2014. Photo: Stephen Parker

Today we reveal the best of the hospitality industry who have been picked to battle it out against each other in this year's Rotorua Hospitality Awards.

The 42 finalists in 14 categories have won their place for winning the hearts, and no doubt the tastebuds, of customers around Rotorua.

In only its third year, it's fitting a hospitality-focused city such as Rotorua pats the backs of those who make our city so special.

It's also fitting the awards are coming at a time when Rotorua is taking a look at its service standards through the Raising the Bar campaign.

A tourist town thrives on impeccable service. We could have the greatest attractions in the world but a city's reputation could be ruined with bad coffee, undercooked chicken or sloppy service.

There are two great things to see from this year's hospitality awards.

The first is that nominations were opened to members of the public - clearly a popular move with 1500 people putting forward businesses and individuals. Previously only industry people could nominate.

It's also wonderful to see so many new businesses doing so well. New operations such as Cobb and Co, Be Rude Not To Cafe and Leonardo's Pure Italian have quickly made their way to the top.

We look forward to the winners being celebrated at a gala function on Sunday, June 29.

Congratulations to all the finalists.