2014 Hawke’s Bay Tourism Industry Award Winners Announced

Media Release

24th September 2013

Embargoed until 9pm 24 September 2014
2014 Hawke’s Bay Tourism Industry Award Winners Announced

Last night Hawke’s Bay tourism providers and industry members gathered at Mission Estate Winery for the third annual Hawke’s Bay Tourism Industry Awards. The awards were open to Hawke’s Bay Tourism members (financial and non financial) across all tourism sectors and recognise local tourism businesses delivering exceptional visitor experiences.

Entrants were asked to complete a comprehensive questionnaire and present their business plan. Entries were then considered by a top, independent judging panel made up of George Hickton – Chairman of Hawke’s Bay Tourism, Chris Tremain – recent MP for Napier, Wayne Wootton – Commercial Manager at Hawke’s Bay Airport and Vanessa Freeman – General Manager at Destination Great Lake Taupo.

There were four awards up for grabs. Two categories were judged by the panel who then selected an overall Supreme Award Winner from the two category winners. The 2014 results were:

Hawke’s Bay Accommodation Award, sponsored by Hastings District Council, Winner: The Crown Hotel

Runner up: Art Deco Masonic Hotel

Hawke’s Bay Activity and Attraction Award, sponsored by Hawke’s Bay Tourism, Winner: Art Deco Trust

Runner up: Nimon and Sons

EIT Supreme Award 2014 Winner: Art Deco Trust

Now in its second year The Hits People’s Choice Award was once again open for locals and visitors to vote for their favourite tourism business and approximately 1100 votes were cast for sixty seven different businesses. The Art Deco Trust was announced as the overall winner of The Hit’s People’s Choice Award.

The other top ten finalists, listed in no particular order, were: Hawke’s Bay Express, Bay Tours and Charters, Gannet Beach Adventures, Hooters Classic & Vintage Car Hire, National Aquarium of New Zealand, Navigate Seaside Accommodation, Emporium Eatery & Bar, Salvare Estate Wines and Birdwoods Gallery.

George Hickton, Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chairman said “It’s important to celebrate achievements within our local tourism industry and to acknowledge those who are running successful businesses and delivering exceptional visitor experiences. The winners here tonight play a pivotal part in doing that and are well deserving of their accolades.”

Hawke’s Bay Tourism General Manager Annie Dundas said “We’re delighted the industry has yet again come out to support each other and celebrate the success of this year’s winners.”

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