2022 TECNZ Awards finalists announced

Fourteen of New Zealand’s esteemed tourism companies and individuals have been recognised with the announcement of the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand’s (TECNZ) Achievement Award Finalists.

TECNZ received a total of 31 entries across five categories.

The awards program has stepped aside from the traditional TECNZ Operator of the Year awards in 2022 to highlight positive changes and contribution a business or person has made since March 2020. There were no awards programs in 2020 and 2021.

The five categories recognise excellence in community and charity groups, environment and sustainability initiatives, innovative product and experience development and two individual awards: Good sort/Unsung Hero and YoungTEC Emerging Leader.

Chief Executive of the Tourism Export Council of NZ Lynda Keene said, “We’re delighted that there has been such strong interest by members to submit an entry as businesses reflect on the past two years and start their recovery journeys. It’s a positive sign showing resilience is part of tourism businesses’ DNA and demonstrates many businesses continue to look at constant improvement of their services, products and experiences even during a global pandemic.

We applaud all businesses, nominations and finalists who have been proactive in making a difference during the pandemic period. The TECNZ Achievement Awards gives us a chance to recognise businesses in different regions, listen to their stories and celebrate with them.”

The Awards Finalists are TECNZ members that are judged and selected by the TECNZ Board. TECNZ industry peers will begin submitting their votes to decide upon the TECNZ Award winners.  The winners will be announced at the 2022 TECNZ Conference, Nelson on 11 August.

Conference registrations are available here.

2022 TECNZ Achievement Awards Finalists are: 

Good Sort / Unsung Hero

  • Ben Thornton – Bush and Beach
  • Cecil Potatau – Ngāi Tahu Tourism
  • Lou Baddiley – RotoruaNZ

Community Charity Volunteer

  • EcoZip Adventures
  • Kohutaphu Lodge & Tribal Tours
  • Wheelie Fantastic Tours

New Sustainability Initiative

  • Ahipara Luxury Travel
  • Ziptrek Ecotours

Innovation of Visitor Product or Experience

  • Altitude Tours
  • Fiordland Trips and Tramps
  • Tākaro Trails

YoungTEC Emerging Leader

  • Eleri Williams, Haka Tourism Group
  • Grace Mitchell, Active Adventures
  • Zac Watson, Maverick Digital

ENDS

About the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand

The Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) is a trade association that represents the interests of the inbound tourism industry since 1971. Its membership includes inbound tour operators (Inbound Members) and attraction, activity, accommodation, transport suppliers, regional tourism organisations and tourism services providers (Allied Members). TECNZ members collectively handle most of New Zealand’s international visitor arrivals. www.tourismexportcouncil.org.nz

For more information please contact:

Lynda Keene

CEO Tourism Export Council of NZ

027 6644 836

 

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