Clearview win big at Tourism Awards

Clearview Estate Winery and Restaurant head chef Pete Hallgarth (left), co-owner Helma van den Berg and general manager Charles Gear after winning the Supreme Award. Photo/ Duncan Brown.

The businesses that deliver "exceptional" visitor experiences were recognised at the sixth annual Hawke's Bay Tourism Industry Awards tonight.

Up to 150 providers and industry members filled the Napier Conference Centre for an evening of celebration, hosted by New Zealand journalist, radio personality author and columnist, Kerry McIvor.

Hawke's Bay Tourism general manager Annie Dundas said all of the winners announced tonight played a pivotal role in Hawke's Bay's tourism industry and were well deserving of their accolades.

The big winner of the evening was Clearview Estate Winery and Restaurant who won the Supreme Award as well as the Essence of Hawke's Bay Award.

Co-owner Helma van den Berg said she was overwhelmed and in shock to be named the supreme award winner and category winner.

"It is all so exciting and I can't quite believe it."

Ms van den Berg said her and co-owner Tim Turvey had a vision more than 30 years ago to create an alfresco Mediterranean styled lunch restaurant where they would sell their own wines and the people would come.

"I think we have enduring passion and we have been doing it around 30 years and the same two people who had the idea are still running it everyday."

"The people that work for us get our vision and passion and make it happen day in day out."

Ms van den Berg said they had got a good cycle as at anytime of the year something different was going on.

"We are grape growers, wine makers, event managers and restaurateurs and I think that is what makes it so exciting."

Award winners:

2017 People's Choice Award Winner: Kennedy Park Resort
Sponsored by The Hits Radio Station

2017 Supreme Award Winner: Clearview Estate Winery and Restaurant
Sponsored by EIT

2017 Small Accommodation Award Winner: Millar Road
Sponsored by Central Linen Services

2017 Large Accommodation Award Winner: Kennedy Park Resort
Sponsored by Central Linen Services

2017 Visitor Experience Award Winner (small): Prinsy's
Sponsored by Hastings District Council

2017 Visitor Experience Award Winner (large): Craggy Range Winery
Sponsored by Hastings District Council

2017 Innovation Award Winner: Art Deco Trust
Sponsored by Napier City Council

2017 Essence of Hawke's Bay Award Winner: Clearview Estate Winery and Restaurant
Sponsored by Napier City Council

Ambassador for Tourism in Hawke's Bay: Pipi

Rising Star Award: Mel Campbell of Red Bridge Coffee