Longstanding local business Wanaka Helicopters was crowned Supreme Winner at the Ignite Wanaka Business Awards on Friday
night (November 29).
The nationally recognised helicopter training and scenic flights company, which also won the Outstanding in Tourism
category, was awarded the top accolade because of its dual income streams, commitment to quality, overwhelmingly
positive third-party feedback and a strong company culture.
The biennial business awards – sponsored by Milford Asset Management – saw a diverse range of local businesses
celebrated for their achievements locally, nationally and beyond.
Wayne Hudson, convenor of the independent judging panel, says finalists and winners all demonstrated professionalism
with sensible plans for strategic growth.
“There were some exciting businesses, novel businesses and business with a novel approach towards sustainability and
innovation. And they have all been good examples of how a company in a small town can grow and compete successfully at a
national level,” he says.
“It is heartening to see that the Wanaka business community continues to thrive across all industries.”
More than 250 people attended the glitzy gala awards dinner, which took place at Warbirds & Wheels.
Winners of the awards categories are:
Outstanding in Tourism (supported by Lake Wanaka Tourism): Wanaka Helicopters
Outstanding in Trades & Infrastructure (supported by Findex): Roofing Hub
Outstanding in Professional Services (supported by Westpac): OCULA
Outstanding in Retail & Hospitality (supported by Cardrona): Pembroke Patisserie
Outstanding Start-up (supported by Air New Zealand): Hook
Outstanding in Innovation (supported by Aspiring Law): The Wanaka App
Outstanding in Sustainability (supported by Queenstown and Wanaka Airports): Cardrona
Outstanding Individual (supported by Ray White): Monique Kelly, ONE New Zealand and
Revology
People's Choice Award (sponsored by the Wanaka App and Mitre 10 Wanaka): The Fit Collective
Supreme Winner: Wanaka Helicopters
The Ignite Wanaka Business Awards are also sponsored by: Raspberry Creek, Yello!, Maude Wines, B.Effect, Rippon,
Entertainment Solutions, Fantail Events, The Film Crew, The Messenger, Scope Media, Radio Wanaka and Wanaka App.