To this day, tourism is the largest economic driver and our economy is benefiting, highlighted in the provisional estimate of GDP growth of 3 per cent over June 2017 year, compared to 2.8 per cent growth nationally.
But what is remarkable is that tourism is only one of the many industries driving our economy, and a range of these businesses will be celebrating their successes and achievements tonight. The journey for all the finalists has been six months in the making.
I want to congratulate each, and every one of them for embarking on this journey. It is not an easy feat by any means; and nor should it be.
This is a celebration of excellence and we all know to be the best of the best, you must work hard, akin to any world-class athlete. They train hard, they have self-doubts, but they have a vision, they have a superb team around them, they are driven, they have tenacity and strength, they are leaders.
Every person involved in the finalists' categories tonight, stand proud, enjoy and celebrate the evening - you deserve it.
Allison Lawton is the chief executive for the Rotorua Chamber of Commerce.