Categories
Outstanding Māori or Pasifika Business
in association with Ngatī Kahungunu Iwi Inc
This award recognises a Māori or Pasifika-owned business that demonstrates excellence in leadership, cultural integrity, business performance and community contribution. We are looking for businesses that honour their cultural values while achieving strong commercial outcomes, supporting whānau or community wellbeing, and contributing meaningfully to the Hawke’s Bay economy.
Best Emerging Business
in association with Heretaunga Hastings a Growing District
Presented to honour a promising and exceptional new business in its start-up phase (in operation from 1-4 years) that has experienced tangible growth and success within its field or industry. A company that has executed good planning, leadership, innovation, and engagement.
Outstanding Social Impact
in association with MediaWorks
Presented to an organisation that addresses pressing social issues, improves lives, and creates positive change in communities above and beyond their daily business operations. We value initiatives that empower marginalised or underserved populations, foster inclusivity and diversity, advance social justice, promote education and healthcare access, and contribute to the overall well-being and advancement of society.
Excellence in Business
Presented to an organisation that excels in various aspects of their operations, including innovation, growth, and customer satisfaction. The recipient of this award demonstrates outstanding performance and sets a benchmark for excellence within the Hawke’s Bay business landscape. This accolade celebrates businesses that continually strive for improvement and contribute positively to the region’s economic growth and development.
Leader of the Year
in association with 2degrees
This award recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, inspiring positive change within their community or organisation. It celebrates those who lead by example, fostering growth, inclusion, and ethical responsibility, and who have made a lasting impact through their vision, integrity, and dedication to the well-being of others.
Best Micro Business
in association with EIT
This award celebrates businesses run by owner-operators or those with fewer than two FTEs, including the owner. These individuals manage everything from admin to service delivery and stand out for their excellence in their trade. It recognises those who operate mostly on their own, yet still make a meaningful contribution to the local economy and business community.
People's Choice
in association with Napier City Council
Presented to organisations that have garnered success through support from their community, stakeholders, staff, and customers. The winner of this category is chosen via public online voting, reflecting a genuine community connection. This award highlights the significance of strong relationships and positive impact within the Hawke’s Bay business community.
Supreme Award
in association with Pan Pac
The Supreme Winner is be chosen each year from the winners of the Outstanding Social Impact, Best Emerging Business, and Excellence in Business or Outstanding Māori or Pasifika Business Categories and announced at the awards celebration dinner.
The Supreme Award represents the highest honour chosen from one of these category winners. The recipient of the Supreme Award should stand out as a role model and inspire others with their outstanding overall performance, visionary thinking, transformative impact, and commitment to excellence.
Air New Zealand Supporting Regional Success
The 2025 Supreme Winner of the Hawke’s Bay Business Awards will be chosen from among the category winners and announced at the Awards Celebration Dinner.
As part of Air New Zealand’s ongoing partnership with the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce – and our national collaboration with the New Zealand Chamber of Commerce – the Supreme Winner will also be invited to take part in an exclusive Chamber of Commerce Mentoring Day in Auckland. This one-of-a-kind experience includes direct engagement with up to three Air New Zealand stakeholders, offering valuable insights and connections to help propel future business growth.
Supporting regional New Zealand remains at the heart of our strategy. We’re committed to helping local businesses thrive by connecting people, places, and opportunities across Aotearoa and the world.
To assist with travel to the mentoring event, the winning team will also receive a $500 Air New Zealand flight voucher.”