The ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards are returning in 2025 with an expanded format, reflecting the growing strength of exporters beyond Wellington.
For the first time, the event will be hosted in Palmerston North at the Palmerston North Conference and Function Centre on June 6, highlighting the vital role of the wider Central region in New Zealandโs export economy.
The awards will now rotate annually between Wellington and Palmerston North, acknowledging the contributions of exporters from Wellington, Whanganui, Wairarapa, Horowhenua, and Manawatลซ.
ExportNZ Central and Hawkeโs Bay manager Amanda Liddle says the decision to broaden the eventโs scope underscores the strength of the regionโs export sector.
โExportNZ is delighted to be holding the ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards for the first time in Palmerston North this year. The region has a thriving export sector and an important logistics ecosystem which is crucial to the New Zealand export economy. We look forward to celebrating the success of exporters throughout the lower North Island,โ says Liddle.
Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith sees the event as an opportunity to showcase the regionโs global impact.
โWe’re proud to host the 2025 Central Export Awards, alternating biennially with Wellington over the coming years. Despite being a powerhouse in primary industries, our city and wider region are often overlooked in the export conversation. Yet weโre at the heart of New Zealandโs food and fibre sector – producing and exporting beef, lamb, poultry, venison, fresh produce, cropping, seafood, dairy, honey, and forestry products worldwide.
Beyond agriculture, weโre also home to many world-class manufacturers, a growing tech sector, and have a strong international education presence,โ says Smith.
ASB Head of International Trade Mike Atkins says the bank is excited to expand its partnership with ExportNZ and Business Central.
โASB is excited to expand our partnership with Business Central in launching the ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards this year. The Manawatลซ region has a rich history in food innovation and science, backed by thriving primary, technology, distribution, and logistics sectors.
โWe look forward to recognising and celebrating the achievements of the regionโs exporters, who play an important role in New Zealandโs economic growth agenda,โ says Atkins.
The awards, in partnership with ASB, aim to honour the success of exporters who are making significant contributions to international markets.
Categories and entry details
The 2025 awards include four key categories, each recognising excellence in different aspects of exporting:
- CentrePort Wellington Excellence in Innovation: Celebrating companies that excel in bringing innovative solutions to global markets, from intellectual property development to successful process implementation.
- ExportNZ Excellence in Sustainability: Recognising businesses that integrate sustainability into their core operations, achieving global success while making a positive environmental and social impact.
- DHL Best Emerging Business: Acknowledging outstanding new exporting businesses with an annual turnover of $5 million or less.
- Gallagher Insurance Best Established Business: Celebrating companies with over five years in export markets and likely annual revenue exceeding $5 million, based on their contribution to New Zealandโs economy.
A panel of experienced export specialists will judge the entries to ensure a fair and comprehensive evaluation. The 2025 judging panel includes David Boyd, Chair of ExportNZ and Founder of Foot Science International; ASB Head of International Trade Mike Atkins; and Paul Brewerton, Customer Manager at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.
Exporters from Greater Wellington, Wairarapa, Horowhenua, Manawatลซ, and Whanganui are invited to submit their entries. Whether you are an emerging exporter or an established global player, these awards provide an opportunity to showcase your success.
Entries are now open, and close on April 16, 2025. Tickets for the awards dinner are available now.
Entry forms, criteria requirements, and registration details for the awards dinner can be found on the ExportNZ website: ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards 2025.
