From a record number of entries, the finalists for the 2012 Westpac Rotorua Business Excellence Awards have been chosen.
Rotorua Chamber of Commerce chief executive Roger Gordon said there were 28 different organisations represented among the 33 finalists, which showed the scope and variety of entrants this year.
"This reflects the very high calibre of entrants. The selection of the category winners and the ultimate winner, the Westpac Business of the Year will be a very difficult choice," he said.
Convening judge Melanie Short agreed. "A year of solid entries and once again, difficult decisions by the judges required.
"It's pleasing to see so many Rotorua businesses placing themselves in a position to be judged by their peers and taking the opportunity to celebrate business excellence in Rotorua."
Leading the charge this year are the Agrodome, Hamurana Lodge, Speedy Signs, Rotorua District Council and Bank of New Zealand who are each finalists in two awards.
Oppies Takeaways, named New Zealand's best chip shop last year, is in the running for the Retail Business Award a second time but will need to beat out McLeods Booksellers and Bunnings.
Mr Gordon said as with all competitions, many missed out on final selection.
"I encourage them to continue their process of evaluation and improvement to ensure they are finalists next year."
The finalists for the six business awards will give a presentation to all 13 judges on the weekend of September 22 and 23, the winners to be announced at a gala dinner at the Energy Events Centre on October 5.
Tickets go on sale September 3 at www.rotoruachamber.co.nz.
2012 Westpac Rotorua Business Excellence Awards Finalists: