Auckland Sea Kayaks (ASK) is a small business making a big impact, delivering award-winning guided tourism and education experiences across the Hauraki Gulf. At their core is a commitment to excellence, sustainability, and people. They aim to be the best – providing safe, unforgettable marine-based adventures, while protecting the places they paddle and building a workplace that attracts top talent. 

ASK's entry clearly demonstrated that doing good is embedded in the very DNA of their business. Judges highlighted ASK’s deep connection with its community and its ability to create meaningful opportunities for people to engage with their environment. Praising how the organisation empowers young people and proves that even a small, locally focused business can make a powerful and lasting impact. 

Christchurch Adventure Park (CAP) is more than a tourism destination—it’s a community hub built with, by, and for the people of Ōtautahi. Community engagement is not an add-on; it’s at the heart of everything they do. 

Judges commended that CAP’s entry this year reflects a high quality of work, and that it remains extremely clear that the organisation is committed to providing memorable experiences and making a positive impact on their community.  

Kohutapu Lodge & Tribal Tours is a small Māori owned, whanau business, offering visitors authentic, engaging, real life experiences, such as guided tours into historic sites, community visits, pōwhiri on to their marae, traditional kai, and interactive cultural workshops.   

Judges were impressed by how Kohutapu Lodge & Tribal Tours continues to inspire with passion, energy, and ambition, delivering incredible work that reaches beyond their local community and creates high-impact initiatives on a global scale. Also noted was how this year’s entry stood out as fresh and inspiring while demonstrating an unwavering commitment to making a difference and motivating others. 

Tatapouri Bay is a Qualmark Gold-rated coastal retreat on the East Coast of Aotearoa, where community connection is central to everything they do. They have transformed a quiet campground into an inclusive, values-led destination that welcomes both travellers and locals. 

Judges found Tatapouri Bay to be a powerful example of how an organisation can serve as a true anchor in its community. Tatapouri Bay fosters connection, pride, and belonging to create a vibrant space that brings people together, and which demonstrates the positive impact possible when community values are at the heart of a locally focused business. 

eRide Waiheke is redefining visitor experience by blending authentic connection with seamless service. They deliver premium electric bike activities from Matiatia Ferry Terminal, welcoming over 11,550 riders annually and enabling 340,000+ kilometres of low-impact travel across Waiheke Island. 

eRide Waiheke impressed the judges with the clarity and professionalism of their approach to creating a consistent visitor experience. eRide’s staff training is operationally slick, ensuring that within 15 minutes, visitors are equipped with the confidence to enjoy their e-bike journey. What appears to be a relatively simple idea is delivered with excellence, producing clear outcomes, high levels of visitor satisfaction and strong feedback scores.  

Franz Josef Glacier Guides (FJGG) is a long-standing kaitiaki of Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere / Franz Josef Glacier, delivering extraordinary glacier experiences that celebrate Te Tai o Poutini’s natural beauty and cultural depth. For over 30 years, they have connected manuhiri with the awe-inspiring landscape through immersive experiences, expert guiding, and storytelling rooted in manaakitanga and mātauranga Māori. 

Judges were impressed by the innovation shown by FJGG in transforming a simple process into an engaging experience through the Tiaki Trail. The use of the Tiaki Promise felt natural and authentic and encourages visitors to connect meaningfully with this unique environment.  

Situated in Rotorua, Te Puia | NZMACI is an iconic visitor attraction on 63 hectares. It includes Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, geysers, the Kiwi Conservation Centre, Rotowhio Marae, Pātaka Kai Restaurant, Hiakai Café, the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI), Āhua Gallery and Oha Store. 

Te Puia provides a highly satisfying experience for both its 221 staff and approx. 248,000 annual visiting manuhiri. 

Judges were impressed by Te Puia’s bold shift from prioritising quantity to focusing on long-term sustainability and delivering a high-quality visitor experience. Particularly notable was the way the operator confronted challenges head-on, reassessing its approach to make impactful changes that delivered clear, measurable results. At the heart of Te Puia’s success is a deep and authentic commitment to Te Ao Māori, woven through every aspect of the visitor journey. 

Tongariro River Rafting is a small, family-owned business with a big heart and clear purpose: to create unforgettable river experiences while protecting the precious environment that makes them possible. Their Visitor Experience programme isn’t just a training manual - it’s a living, breathing culture shaped by their people, their values, and their commitment to doing things the right way.  

Judges commended how Tongariro River Rafting delivers a consistently outstanding visitor experience, even outside of a major tourism hotspot. With a strong culture at the heart of the business, they deliver an intense, adventure-filled activity and achieve remarkable results. Their success reflects not only operational excellence, but also a genuine respect for the environment they operate in, ensuring the river and its surrounds are cared for alongside the visitor experience. 

FJWT is a family-owned Qualmark Gold tourism business based in glacier country on the untamed West Coast. What began as a small kayak operation, has grown into a leading provider of immersive wilderness experiences, including quad bike adventures through lush rainforest and scenic boat cruises on a glacial lake. 

The judges commended Franz Josef Wilderness Tours' hands-on management and mentoring, acknowledging the time and effort invested in supporting staff while balancing day-to-day operations. Operating in a challenging location, the organisation has successfully empowered its team and strengthened ties with the local community, showing that even a single business can build a high-performing, supportive workplace. 

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa (HSTPS) is one of New Zealand’s most cherished tourist destinations. As the largest employer in their district, they recognise the profound responsibility they have in shaping their team’s livelihoods and supporting their alpine community—a commitment they take seriously. 

Operating in a small community with recruitment challenges, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa has demonstrated outstanding leadership and a genuine commitment to its people. Judges noted how they excel across all facets of employee engagement - from staff development and career progression to impressive engagement statistics. The organisation continues to strive for improvement showcasing a strong commitment to supporting and developing their people.  

Tomahawk is a marketing agency with over 18 years of experience helping tourism businesses thrive.  

Demonstrating strong, values-led leadership through co-design, Tomahawk has taken its team on a journey where everyone clearly understands the brand, its purpose, and values. In just two years, it restructured its business model to address turnover and drive meaningful, inclusive change. Judges were impressed by how this approach has fostered a culture of trust and respect, enabling both the business and its people to thrive, while also setting a powerful example of progressive leadership within the industry. 

Auckland Sea Kayaks (ASK) is a small business making a big impact, delivering award-winning guided tourism and education experiences across the Hauraki Gulf. At their core is a commitment to excellence, sustainability, and people. They aim to be the best —providing safe, unforgettable marine-based adventures, while protecting the places they paddle and building a workplace that attracts top talent. 

The judges were impressed with Auckland Sea Kayaks Ltd’s innovative practices from the Get Home Safe app and Te Reo Māori guided experiences, to strong community integration and gender diversity training. Their clear focus on continuous improvement and measurable goals demonstrates a commitment to being the best they can be. 

Blue Duck Station exemplifies the future of Aotearoa tourism. By transforming degraded farmland into thriving ecosystems that support endangered species like whio & kiwi, they have created a unique destination that integrates conservation, sustainable farming & high-value tourism. 

Blue Duck Station demonstrates how a small operator can deliver excellence through thoughtful diversification and regenerative practices. Judges noted their strong environmental stewardship, meaningful community partnerships and the establishment of their own conservation trust. By monitoring feedback and continually improving, Blue Duck Station proves that their operations are not only sustainable, but deeply connected to land, community and workforce, exemplifying long-term resilience and commitment to the values of 2050. 

In a world chasing scale, Hahei Explorer chose soul. Since 1992, Hahei Explorer has carried manuhiri across the turquoise waters of Te Whanganui-o-Hei, sharing stories whispered by cliffs and tides and weaving each journey with kaitiakitanga. They’re not just guides; they’re guardians, storytellers, and locals who believe great tourism begins with aroha for place and people. 

Hahei Explorer stands out for its strong community integration, commercial leadership and commitment to sustainable growth. The judges noted the operator’s support for staff development and mentoring, with many employees progressing into careers with DOC and TNZ. 

Tongariro River Rafting are a proudly family-owned business delivering unforgettable adventures in one of Aotearoa’s most spectacular regions. Their small, mighty team blends heart, humour, and hard graft to deliver world-class experiences that connect people to place - and each other. 

Judges were impressed by Tongariro River Rafting’s strong value driven ethos and entrepreneurial approach. Their commitment to “value over volume” ensures a high-quality visitor experience that aligns with the Tourism Sustainability Commitments. This small business exemplifies how dedication, innovation and responsible practices can achieve lasting impact for visitors, communities and the environment. 

Black Cat Cruises is one of Aotearoa’s original eco-tourism operators, this year celebrating 40 years of marine conservation, community connection and sustainable business. 

Black Cat Cruises impressed the judges with an outstanding visitor experience underpinned by a clear commitment to sustainability. Their hands on conservation events alongside regular donations demonstrates that conservation is not just a value, but a core part of how they operate.  

Wellington Cable Car is a proudly iconic, community-anchored tourism experience that blends heritage with innovation and sustainability. As one of New Zealand’s most visited attractions, the Wellington Cable Car delivers a world-class visitor journey, connecting the city to its gardens, sanctuaries, museums, and panoramic views, while honouring their natural environment and cultural roots. 

What was once primarily a mode of transport has been transformed into a distinctive visitor experience. Judges were impressed with how the Wellington Cable Car went to the next level with substance, legacy and clear purpose.  

For 50 years Willowbank has been a leader in conservation, education and visitor experience. It has grown from humble beginnings with a shoebox till, to welcoming over 230,000 annual visitors. Willowbank conservation programmes have released more than 700 kiwi back into the wild, alongside success with takahē, pāteke, whio, and other native and rare species.  

Willowbank stood out to the judges for the breadth and depth of its impact — from conservation and community engagement to its strong national reputation. After 50 years, Willowbank continues to lead by example, demonstrating excellence across all areas of sustainability and tourism.  

At Ziptrek Ecotours, they don’t just operate in nature - they operate for it. For 15 years, they have shown that adventure tourism can drive real, lasting change. From cutting emissions by 30% to eliminating single-use plastics and mentoring others in sustainability, they lead with purpose - not just policy. 

The judges recognised Ziptrek Ecotours as strongly values-driven, consistently demonstrating leadership as one of the early adopters of sustainability in the sector. While their commitment to environmental causes is clear, what truly stood out was their innovative support for staff, including dedicated budgets to encourage entrepreneurial ideas. 

Intrepid Travel is a B Corp-certified adventure travel company and global leader in responsible tourism. Driven by its mission to create positive change through the joy of travel, Intrepid delivers regenerative visitor experiences that respect te taiao, honour te ao Māori, and uplift the communities it travels through. 

Operating at a global scale, Intrepid Travel brings together a unique combination of international expertise and local impact. Judges recognised their commitment to sustainability, from environmental stewardship to active support of local communities including Māori cultural initiatives.  

As a 100% New Zealand-owned adventure tourism company, New Zealand Trails goal is simple: share Aotearoa like they would with close friends. From the moment guests get in touch, they know their name and they know ours. 

The judges praised New Zealand Trails remarkable growth and operational excellence, driven by a strong culture of feedback and continuous improvement. New Zealand Trails stands out as a leading tourism operator, seamlessly combining high-performance operations with environmental responsibility and meaningful community engagement at scale. 

RealNZ is a purpose-driven tourism leader delivering iconic, nature-based experiences across southern Aotearoa. From the World Heritage beauty of Piopiotahi and Pātea, to the alpine slopes of Cardrona and Treble Cone, the wildness of Rakiura, and the adventure hub of Whakatipu Queenstown. 

The judges commended RealNZ for demonstrating strong operational systems, meticulous attention to detail, and a clear commitment to delivering high-quality visitor experiences at scale. They noted that RealNZ sets a high standard in both transparency and execution, showcasing its ability to lead with responsibility, innovation, and measurable impact within the tourism sector.  

Situated in Rotorua, Te Puia | NZMACI is an iconic visitor attraction on 63 hectares. It includes Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, geysers, scenic landscapes, the Kiwi Conservation Centre, Rotowhio Marae, Pātaka Kai Restaurant, Hiakai Café, the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI), Āhua Gallery and Oha Store. 

Te Puia impressed judges with a remarkable transformation over the past few years, demonstrating rapid and significant improvements across every area of their business. Te Puia exemplifies a tourism business delivering outstanding impact, cultural leadership and operational excellence on a large scale. 

Blue Duck Station is an internationally recognised destination situated in the Ruapehu district & surrounded by Whanganui National Park. Their unique landscape lends itself to a diverse range of opportunities including accommodation, fine dining, conservation, sheep & beef farming, honey, carbon & forestry. 

Judges were inspired by Blue Duck Station’s sustainability-first approach, where tourism supports rather than drives the operation. By combining hands on conservation, carbon initiatives and educational outreach, the business stands out as a living classroom and catalyst for positive change. 

Ngā Manu Nature Reserve is an exemplar of how a small, community-based organisation can lead bold, meaningful action in sustainability. For 50 years, Ngā Manu has protected native flora and fauna while fostering public connection to nature through education, eco-tourism, and volunteering. 

Ngā Manu Trust has established itself as a leader in connecting people with nature through conservation and education. Judges celebrated their strategic approach and the measurement of outcomes. The breadth of partnerships they maintain, each supporting a unique conservation goal, also highlights their leadership and collaborative approach making Ngā Manu Trust a standout example of environmental excellence in tourism.  

RealNZ is a purpose-driven tourism operator delivering unforgettable, nature-based experiences across southern Aotearoa – from the World Heritage Piopiotahi and Pātea, to the wild Rakiura, the slopes of Cardrona and Treble Cone, and the adventure capital Tāhuna Queenstown. 

Continuing a decades long commitment to environmental and social responsibility, RealNZ sets a high benchmark in sustainability. Judges noted the breadth and depth of their impact, from measurable outcomes to unexpected benefits that have emerged over time. Their ongoing commitment to sustainability, innovative partnerships and diverse environmental initiatives demonstrates that even as a past winner, RealNZ continues to evolve. 

Tohu Experiences is a kaupapa Māori tourism organisation based in Rotorua, dedicated to delivering transformative, sustainable experiences across Aotearoa. A Qualmark Gold-certified group, they operate multiple businesses including Mountain Bike Rotorua, MDA Events, Education Tours NZ, and run flagship events like Crankworx Rotorua and Legend of the Peaks. 

Bringing an innovative approach to environmental and sustainable tourism, Tohu Experiences operator adds something unique to the sector. Judges applauded their underlying philosophy of reducing barriers, building equity and enriching people to elevate identity. Beyond inspiring visitors, Tohu delivers transformative and sustainable experiences that leave a lasting impact. 

Kapiti Island Nature Tours is a whānau business operating on Māori-owned land on Kapiti Island for eight generations, integrating conservation and cultural immersion into their unique tourism experience. They are committed to kaitiaki of our land, sharing its natural and cultural heritage with over 30,000 visitors annually. Their offerings include ferry transport, walking tours, and overnight stays, all structured around our guiding kaupapa. 

The judges commended how Kapiti Island Nature Tours continues to operate at a high level, while maintaining a strong focus on community outcomes, showing positive change in the communities it engages with. By stretching beyond its comfort zone and leveraging international connections, Kapiti Island Nature Tours exemplifies how Māori tourism can deliver outstanding experiences that are culturally authentic, community centred and globally influential.  

Kohutapu Lodge & Tribal Tours is a small Māori owned, whanau business, offering visitors authentic, engaging, real life experiences, such as guided tours into historic sites, community visits, pōwhiri on to their marae, traditional kai, and interactive cultural workshops.   

The judges rated Kohutapu Lodge & Tribal Tours Ltd highly for its significant leadership in taking Native Nation’s work to a global stage. As a small whānau-owned business, its commitment to sharing Māori culture internationally and supporting other Indigenous communities reflects both innovation and a deep cultural impact. 

As an Iwi owned tourism attraction, Te Puia has met the challenges of the last five years head-on and emerged into a space where they can continue to uphold mātauranga Māori and be “the house that guides us to our aspirations” He whare I whakaarahia I roto I te pa tuwatawata o nga tumanako. They gain inspiration from these words and have set a course that is customer focused and grounded in tikanga. 

The judges noted how Te Puia has pivoted thoughtfully from a predominantly international focus to a domestic, higher-value, lower volume visitor proposition, while maintaining the highest standards. This organisation continues to deliver exceptional value to Māori, the community and New Zealand, embodying a model of leadership and cultural preservation in Māori tourism.  

Tohu Experiences is a proudly Māori-owned and operated business based in Rotorua, with over 30 years of delivering genuine, values-based tourism and event experiences. Rooted deeply in the Māori values of Manaakitanga, Kaitiakitanga, Kotahitanga, and Whanaungatanga, their mission is to uplift both people and place through meaningful engagement. 

The judges were impressed by how Tohu Experiences has evolved over the last 30 years, integrating tikanga and cultural elements through its operation while expanding its adventure tourism offerings. With strong numbers, happy visitors and a clear focus on culture and community, Tohu Experiences exemplifies excellence in Māori tourism. 

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing (TAC) holds immense cultural significance to mana whenua Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro, representing a vital aspect of their heritage and identity within the Tongariro National Park. As custodians of this treasured landscape, Ngāti Hikairo, in partnership with the Department of Conservation (DOC), sought to develop a sustainable visitor management model aligning with their kaitiaki and manaaki responsibilities. This collaboration aimed to reset the visitor experience, emphasizing cultural and environmental stewardship while enhancing visitor safety and satisfaction. 

The judges noted the Department of Conservation’s outstanding contribution, achieving superior results through collaboration across the tourism sector. Their initiatives demonstrate effective partnership, leadership and a clear commitment to enhancing visitor experience, while protecting and sustaining Aotearoa New Zealand’s natural and cultural resources. 

The Ōkārito Plant Project (OPP) is a business-led, regenerative initiative transforming the role of tourism in restoring nature and supporting thriving communities in South Westland. Co-founded by a collective of local and international tourism operators, the Ōkārito Native Plants Trust, landowners, and Development West Coast’s Nature Economy Project, OPP is a shared platform for coordinated, on-the-ground action. 

Judges recognised this initiative for its strong grassroots collaboration bringing together tourism, local communities and environmental stewardship. The initiative demonstrates alignment with sustainability and regenerative tourism practices, showcasing how collaboration can benefit both communities and the natural environment. 

Southern Way is a strategic collaboration led by eight Regional Tourism Organisations - Tourism Waitaki, Enterprise Dunedin, Tourism Central Otago, Clutha Development, Visit Southland, Visit Fiordland, Destination Queenstown, Lake Wanaka Tourism and three airports in the Southern Airport Alliance - Dunedin, Queenstown, and Invercargill, under a shared regional identity. Its mission is to increase awareness, encourage low-impact travel, and promote regional dispersal across domestic and short-haul markets. 

The judges commended Southern Way on the coordinating multiple partners across a high-demand tourism region. This initiative demonstrates a sophisticated approach to collaboration and visitor management. Southern Way shows how strategic planning and partner collaboration can deliver significant regional impact.  

The Hotel Britomart is New Zealand's first 5 Green Star hotel, recognised for its leadership in sustainable architecture, operations and guest experience. Located in the heart of downtown Auckland, the hotel brings together thoughtful design and environmental responsibility in a way that feels welcoming, modern and deeply rooted in place. 

The judges commended The Hotel Britomart on how they showcased a targeted, but effective collaboration with the hotel working closely with a key partner to create a new tourism experience. The collaboration demonstrated how even a single partnership can produce impactful and memorable outcomes. 

Christchurch Adventure Park (CAP) is a story of resilience and reinvention. Despite fires, floods, earthquakes, a pandemic and legal challenges in just eight years, CAP continues to lead through bold innovation. 

Judges were impressed by the world's first uphill zip-line, a bold innovation that positions New Zealand as a leader in adventure tourism. The project demonstrates exceptional operational excellence and leadership, reflecting significant time and investment to achieve a globally unique experience. 

eRide Waiheke is a locally owned micro business transforming visitor travel on Waiheke Island through smart, regenerative tourism solutions. They offer premium e-bike experiences supported by multilingual digital tools and a data-driven carbon reduction platform. 

The judges were impressed by eRide Waiheke’s innovative response to an accessibility challenge on the island, creating an app that improves access to services for visitors. This solution demonstrates creative problem-solving, enhances the visitor experience and reflects a thoughtful approach to using technology to address real-world tourism needs. 

Launched in 2022, LyLo is redefining budget travel by delivering a stylish, social, and affordable experience for savvy travellers. They break the mould with innovative sleeping pods and versatile communal spaces designed for play, work, dining, and rest - catering especially to solo travellers seeking privacy, safety, and genuine connection. 

LyLo stood out to the judges as they demonstrate a bold and creative approach to budget accommodation, combining a new operational model with strong partnerships and a continuous feedback loop to refine the guest experience. LyLo shows how innovation and adaptability can drive lasting impact across the sector. 

At Mad Campers, innovation is in their DNA. They have reimagined what campervan travel can look like and created industry-first vehicles and marketing strategies that are bold, efficient, and built for the modern traveller. 

This business stood out to the judges for its creative approach to campervan tourism, designing New Zealand’s first vehicles that deliver a fully immersive camping experience. They demonstrate year-on-year growth, showing how creative ideas combined with strong execution can achieve transformative impact.  

With over four decades of experience in global tourism and hospitality, Gavin M. Faull has been a steadfast leader, innovator, and advocate for the sustainable growth of the industry. As Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, he has led the group’s expansion to over 150 properties worldwide, with a strong and growing presence in New Zealand. 

The judges were impressed with how Gavin has built a remarkable career by creating a business from the ground up and establishing an international hospitality school that benefits both the community and the tourism sector. His achievements, sustained leadership and wide-reaching impact make him a true leader and inspiration in New Zealand tourism. 

The judges were impressed how Nadine has used tourism as a catalyst for community transformation, combining her business leadership with deep engagement in Māori culture. Her passion and dedication over the past 12 months highlight how tourism can drive meaningful social and cultural impact. 

Courtney Russell embodies everything a leader should be and more. Courtney lives and breathes tourism and is the biggest advocate of Transport World and its attractions - Bill Richardson Transport World, Classic Motorcycle Mecca, The Lodges at Transport World Accommodation, The Grille café, and Toot Sweets.  

Starting her career on the front line, Courtney has steadily worked her way up to take on pivotal roles across the industry. Judges noted her contribution to the successful launch of several major attractions and her strong commercial ability in revitalising and growing a café business. 

Driven by a deep passion for tourism, Zac Watson of Maverick Tourism is committed to making a lasting impact on Aotearoa New Zealand’s visitor economy. A strong advocate for the power of technology, creativity, and people, Zac has spent the past decade helping businesses thrive. 

Zac's experience spans roles at Merlin Entertainments, Haka Tourism Group, and Auckland Unlimited. Joining Maverick three years ago, he has risen to be the General Manager, charged with leading an award-winning team of 13 partnering with renowned businesses globally.   

Zac stood out for his dedication to the industry and the breadth of experience he brings beyond his day-to-day role. With proven results, strong communication and broad experience, Zac is undoubtedly a future senior leader and will continue to make an impact across the tourism sector.