Bay tourism awards finalists announced

Craggy Range winery is one of the 14 finalists named in the 2017 Hawke's Bay Tourism Industry Awards. Photo/ file.

Some of the Bay's top tourist destinations were announced as finalists for the 2017 Hawke's Bay Tourism Industry Awards yesterday.

The awards, which recognise local tourism providers delivering exceptional visitor experiences, were open to Hawke's Bay Tourism Partner Programme members across all tourism sectors.

The entries were judged by an independent panel made up of Hawke's Bay Regional councillor and Hawke's Bay Tourism board member Fenton Wilson, Chamber of Commerce CEO Wayne Walford, Consultancy Firm Reputation Matters managing director Liz Read and Destination Rotorua general manager Oscar Nathan.

Mr Walford said as the Bay continued to develop and mature, the process of deciding a winning tourism product for each of the categories was becoming harder.

"Having new and exciting quintessential Hawkes Bay businesses added to the tourism landscape is exciting."

"2017 was no exception, it was tough - we are clearly spoilt for choice as tourism operators 'up their game' and build strategic sustainability and resilience into their businesses."

Hawke's Bay Tourism General Manager Annie Dundas said it was wonderful to have an opportunity to celebrate the success and innovation of local tourism operators through the awards.

The judged award categories were; the Visitor Experience Awards sponsored by Hastings District Council, Small and Large Accommodation Awards sponsored by Central Linen Services, the Innovation Award sponsored by Napier City Council and the Essence of Hawke's Bay Award sponsored by Indelible.

A Supreme Award winner, sponsored by EIT, will then be selected from the four category winners.

Due to popular demand "The People's Choice" award is back again this year, sponsored by The Hits Radio Station where members of the public can now vote for their favourite tourism business.

Voting for this award is open now at http://www.thehits.co.nz/win/hawkes-bay/win-with-the-hits-peoples-choice-award-2017/ until mid-night 22nd of August.

The finalists include: Art Deco Trust, Black Rose Limousine, Clearview Estate Winery, Cottages on St Andrews, Craggy Range Winery, Kennedy Park Resort, Millar Road, MTG, Napier City Bike Hire and Tours, Odyssey NZ, Pipi, Planit Events, Prinsys Tours and Red Bridge Coffee.

Winners of the four categories, Supreme Award and the People's Choice Award will be announced at the Napier Conference Centre on August 24.

To purchase your tickets contact Lisa Sampson via: lisas@hawkesbaytourism.co.nz.