"It's just really good to have his support for the event and he'll be talking about his business journey and experience. Obviously through Covid-19 the entertainment industry was hit quite hard."
Musical guests at the July 3 event include Caleb Haapu and Friends and DJ Riddem Cartel.
Meanwhile, the deadline for entries have been extended to 5pm, Friday June 18.
The event will include a three course sit-down meal from local company Essence Catering and will feature oysters from Moana (West Coast) and Jackson's Rewena Bread from Whanganui East. The War Memorial Centre's large LED screens are set to livestream all awards activities.
• Te Manu Atatū Whanganui Māori Business Network Biennial Awards run from 5pm to 12am on Saturday, July 3 at the Whanganui War Memorial Centre.