Service with a smile pays off

Outstanding customer service has been recognised with the latest WairarapaWon awards.

Toby James, of Martinborough, who has been managing the Tirohana Estate Restaurant and Vineyard for about four years, won the business award for providing excellent service.

He said it was always great to hear feedback from customers.

"It was a lovely surprise," he said.

"It's especially nice when people go to all the effort to send the forms in."

He said everybody, including owners Raymond and Linda Thompson, were thrilled with the award.

Mr James was nominated by Wellingtonian Chris Miller after she spent a weekend at the estate for a friend's 60th birthday.

"We were called by our first name by each member of the staff and the service couldn't be faulted at all during the evening," she said.

The judges said Mr James was an outstanding example of service in hospitality/wine tourism - which is key to the region.

"[It] was pleasing to see the nomination came from a Wellingtonian - as their own service expectations were met and exceeded."

Sandy Hansen, of Queen St Pharmacy, was very surprised to hear she had also won an award.

The shop manager said it was "lovely" to be recognised for her work. Mrs Hansen was nominated by Maree Anisy, of the Glenwood Masonic Hospital.

She said Mrs Hansen brought a freshness and vitality to her service which encourages the customers to ask questions and return to the shop.

"Clients are quickly and effectively served," she said.

The judges said Mrs Hansen's nomination came from another business which relies on advice from the pharmacy for their own clients.

"Sandy's willingness and encouragement of customers to ask her advice and her strong consistent service delivery made her a winner."

WairarapaWon awards are given every two months. Nominations can be made on the website: www.wairarapawon.co.nz.