For years, the Restaurant Association of New Zealand has organised and hosted regional hospitality awards, celebrating the incredible talent and dedication within our industry. These events have played a crucial role in recognising excellence, fostering connections, and bringing the hospitality community together.
Now, as the industry continues to evolve, we see an opportunity to shift to a locally led model that puts ownership of these awards into the hands of the hospitality professionals they celebrate. Instead of the Restaurant Association managing every aspect of the awards, we are empowering local operators to take the lead, securing sponsors, driving nominations, and shaping the event to best reflect their region’s hospitality scene.
Why are we making this change? Because the hospitality industry is built on community—and when those closest to the industry take the reins, the awards can become even more meaningful. This approach strengthens local engagement, ensures the awards remain relevant to each region, and provides operators with the opportunity to take ownership of an event that highlights their own successes.
The Restaurant Association remains a key supporter and lead sponsor, ensuring continuity, credibility, and promotional support. Our role will focus on championing these awards at a national level, providing guidance, marketing assistance, and facilitating connections with past and potential sponsors.
We are excited to work alongside industry leaders to ensure the future of New Zealand’s hospitality awards remains strong—by the industry, for the industry.