Acclaimed winery scoops region's top tourism prize

Brenda Chapman, marketing director for EIT (left) and the team from Craggy Range Kristine Kilpatrick, Debbie Miller, Peter Manson and Venita Simcox at last night's awards. Photo Supplied

Craggy Range has clinched the Supreme Award at the 2019 Hawke's Bay Tourism Awards.

The winery also took out the Visitor Experience Award at the function held at Mission Estate Winery last night.

Packed full of action and glamour, the evening was hosted by The Hits radio personality Megan Banks, and attended by tourism providers and industry members gathered to recognise the delivery of outstanding visitor experiences in Hawke's Bay.

Other winners included the Urban Winery, which took out the Essence of Hawke's Bay Award, Art Deco Masonic Hotel claimed the Accommodation Award, Napier Māori Tours received the Environment Award, and Church Road Winery were winners in the Culture and Heritage category.

Hawke's Bay Tourism Industry Association Chairman Hamish Prins says the annual awards are a valued opportunity to recognise stand-out contributors to the tourism industry, which is now estimated to contribute $660m to the regional economy.

"We congratulate all of our members who put themselves forward to be judged and, in particular, celebrate those who were finalists and award winners," says Hamish.

"The success of Hawke's Bay's visitor economy owes much to the passion and dedication of our members who help create amazing and memorable experiences for people who choose to travel to Hawke's Bay. The awards are about acknowledging their collective contribution, as well as highlighting those who are really making their mark."

The awards were judged by Kim Thorp - Black Barn Vineyards co-founder, Jane Wilson – General Manager, Destination Great Lake Taupō, and Glenn Fulcher – Head of School, Tourism and Hospitality at EIT.

The judges also chose to mark two special contributions by members, with Emma Hadden from Meadowood House recognised as a Rising Star, while Bay Tours were presented with a Business Excellence Award.

The 2019 top honours went to:

2019 Supreme Award Winner: Craggy Range Sponsored by EIT 2019 Accommodation Award Winner: Art Deco Masonic Hotel

Sponsored by Hawke's Bay Airport

2019 Visitor Experience Award Winner: Craggy Range Sponsored by Hastings District Council

2019 Environment Award Winner: Napier Māori Tours Sponsored by Hastings District Council

2019 Culture & Heritage Award Winner: Church Road Winery Sponsored by Wairoa District Council

2019 Essence of Hawke's Bay Award Winner: The Urban Winery Sponsored by Napier City Council

Additional Awards

Rising Star Award: Emma Hadden from Meadowood House

Business Excellence Award: Bay Tours