Takaro Trails claim supreme award

UPBEAT: Kerrianne Page from Takaro Trails which scooped the Supreme Award at last night's 2016 Hawke's Bay Tourism Awards. PHOTO WARREN BUCKLAND

Takaro Trails walked away with the supreme award from the fifth annual Hawke's Bay Tourism industry awards held at the MTG Theatre last night.

Up to 150 Hawke's Bay tourism providers came together for a night full of "fun and glamour" hosted by New Zealand actor, singer and performer, Shane Cortese.

Takaro Trails won the Small Business Award, which was sponsored by the Napier City Council, before being selected as the supreme award winner.

Ms Ryan was unable to attend the awards last night as Takaro Trails had been nominated as a finalist for the small business award in the national business awards held in Auckland.

The small company was established by Jenny Ryan with an aim to operate quality bike tours throughout Hawke's Bay.

They offer self-guided tours, privately guided tours and multi-day tours, where people can stay in Luxury lodges around the region.

Takaro Trails won a Trip Adviser certificate of excellence for their consistently great travel reviews from travellers last year.

The winner of The Hits peoples choice award, voted by the public, was Bay Tours and Charters who offer wine tours and sightseeing tours around Hawke's Bay.

The company also won the Activity and Attraction award sponsored by the Hastings District Council.

They offer tours which can be altered depending on the group, so anyone from a cruise ship visitor to a family on holiday can utilise and experience their tourism service.

The other categories were Small Accommodation sponsored by Central Linen Services and won by Greenhill Lodge and Large Accommodation sponsored by Central Linen Services and won by Navigate Seaside Hotel.

Also acknowledged at the Hawke's Bay Tourism Awards were three individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry.

Di Ross of Cottages of St Andrews was recognised as Ambassador for Tourism in Hawke's Bay, Rebecca Tacon of Planit Event received the Rising Star Award, and Neil Fergus received a Services to Tourism Award.

Hawke's Bay Tourism General Manager Annie Dundas said it was important to recognise and celebrate the local businesses who work incredibly hard to deliver exceptional experiences for visitors to the region.

"The winners and finalists here tonight all play a pivotal role in Hawke's Bay's tourism industry and are well deserving of their accolades."