New Zealand Tourism Awards announce record 177 finalists

Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) has announced the finalists for the 2026 New Zealand Tourism Awards, reporting a record 177 entries across 12 categories. This figure surpasses the previous record of 150 entries from the prior year.

Chief Executive Rebecca Ingram stated that the increased participation indicates a thriving industry and growing pride among operators regarding their achievements. Judges noted high-quality applications with strong supporting evidence. The finalist pool includes a diverse range of participants, including many first-time entrants and new operators.

Māori tourism is prominently featured, with finalists for the Toroa ā-uta, Toroa ā-tai Māori Tourism Award including Muirs Tours, Te Wharewaka o Pōneke, Waka On Avon – Ko Tāne Limited, and Whanganui Tours. Other notable mentions include Hapuku Kitchen – Te Kura Taka Kai in the Micro Business category and various participants in the Tourism Collaboration Award.

Winners will be revealed at the New Zealand Tourism Awards Dinner on November 4 at the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre.