Tourism Industry Awards 2010 Finalists

13 August 2010

Creativity and innovation abound in the 34 companies and individuals announced today as finalists in the 2010 Tourism Industry Awards.

“It is very pleasing to see that our finalists come from all over the country - 15 regions from Northland to Mackenzie - highlighting the valuable contribution tourism makes to communities throughout New Zealand,” says Tourism Industry Association (TIA) Chief Executive Tim Cossar.

He says the finalists also come from a variety of sectors and range from events like Wellington’s NZI Sevens tournament to Katikati Naturist Park and the Christchurch Casino. There is also a strong line-up of contenders in the new ‘Local Government Helping Visitor Industry’ category, including from districts that are off the traditional tourist track, like Ruapehu.

“This year’s finalists all demonstrate a real commitment to continual innovation, something that is critical in an industry that has to compete for visitors against much bigger and better resourced international competitors.

“They show that innovation occurs at all levels of the tourism industry and in all types of businesses, from product innovation to business management, and marketing. These high-performing businesses are leaders in our multi-billion dollar industry and are role models that others can aspire to.”

This year’s finalists were selected by assessors representing a wide range of industry leaders and specialists. The winners will be chosen by a panel of expert judges and announced at a celebration event in Auckland on 14 October, attended by Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key. Tickets will go on sale soon. See www.tourismawards.co.nz for details.

In addition to the business finalists, three individuals have been selected as finalists in the PATA Young Tourism Entrepreneur Award. This award is open to individuals 35 years or younger, and is the industry’s annual recognition of its outstanding young star. Read the media release here.

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For further information, please contact:

Ann-Marie Johnson
Communications Manager
Tourism Industry Association (TIA)
DDI: 04 496 5001
Mobile: 027 600 4565
Email: ann-marie.johnson@tianz.org.nz