Rotorua Business Awards entries impress judge

CELEBRATION: Last year's supreme winners the Agrodome, celebrating their award in style. PHOTO/FILE

The finalists for the 2013 Westpac Rotorua Business Excellence Awards have been announced.

Convenor of judges Linda Macpherson, was impressed with the standard of entries.

"The 12 top business minds that make up this year's judging panel have been blown away by the level of commitment entrants have shown to not only their business but the broader Rotorua community.

"The judges are looking forward to the challenge of determining the winners from a strong line-up of finalists.

"Regardless of the outcome, every business that has put themselves up for critique by their peers will gain a tremendous amount from the incredibly robust judging process and will enjoy the chance to celebrate the business excellence that is alive and well in Rotorua."

Rotorua Chamber of Commerce chief executive officer Roger Gordon said the finalists represented a wide cross section of Rotorua businesses and a very high calibre of entrants.

"I am pleased to see, again, the number of individual businesses that are represented amongst the finalists. Each year there are many organisations that have missed out on the final selection.

"However each of the business categories do receive substantial feedback from the judges to help them move their business forward. I encourage them to continue their process of evaluation and improvement to ensure they make finalist status next year."

Mr Gordon said the judging panel will select the business award category winners next month. The interviews and judging process for the awards of distinction have been completed.

The Gala Presentation Dinner will be held on Friday, October 4 at the Energy Events Centre.

"Our event team always exceeds our expectation year after year. I am sure this year will be no different. Our master of ceremonies is Jackie Clarke and throughout the evening the entertainment, including the dance music, will be provided by the inimitable Ladykillers - Jackie Clarke, Tina Cross and Suzanne Lynch," Mr Gordon said. "It will be an event not to miss!"

Tickets are on sale from September 2 and can be ordered at www.rotoruachamber.co.nz