The Rotorua Business Award Gala in 2022. Photo / Michelle Cutelli Photography
The Rotorua Business Award Gala in 2022. Photo / Michelle Cutelli Photography
“Passionate, committed and resilient” businesses and people are being recognised in this year’s Rotorua Business Awards.
Sixty finalists in 16 categories have been announced and Tompkins Wake Rotorua Business Awards convenor Michelle Urquhart said the high number of entries made shortlisting the finalists a tough job for the 30-strong judging team.
“They take their job extremely seriously and they have been thorough in their assessments of every entry,” Urquhart said.
“Those that have not been shortlisted as a finalist this year will receive feedback on their entry, as this is an important part of helping grow their future potential.”
Rotorua Business Chamber chief executive Bryce Heard said everyone involved was prepared for 2024 to be a tougher year for the annual awards given the challenging economic environment. There had been a record 120 entries into this year’s awards.
“The number and quality of entries have blown everyone away,” Heard said.
“We have long known that Rotorua businesses are passionate, committed and resilient and the high level of interest in the 2024 Tompkins Wake Rotorua Business Awards has reinforced this.
“We are incredibly proud of our city, its businesses and its people. We are excited to deliver another business awards that showcase everything Rotorua has to offer.”
Ashleigh Nairn worked her way up from part-time worker to franchise owner. Photo / Stephen Parker
The People’s Choice Award opened for nominations in July and the finalists this year are White Tiger Restaurant and Bar, Fanciful Cakes by Merenia, The Pet Vet and Seva Spa.
Next, finalists will be interviewed by category judges as part of the selection process.
Winners will be announced at the gala event on October 5 at the Energy Events Centre in Rotorua.
Cian Elyse White is the director of the Aronui Indigenous Arts Festival - nominated for two categories in 2024.
Tickets for the gala are on sale until September 20 at www.rotoruabusinessawards.co.nz.
