Entries are now open for two of New Zealand’s key regional export award programmes, with exporters in both the Bay of Plenty and Hawke’s Bay encouraged to put themselves forward for recognition in 2026.
The ExportNZ ASB Bay of Plenty Export Awards will culminate in a gala event on 7 August at Mercury Baypark in Mount Maunganui, celebrating businesses taking the region’s goods and services to global markets.
Organised by the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) on behalf of ExportNZ, the awards are held in partnership with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and supported by principal sponsor ASB Bank.
ExportNZ Bay of Plenty Executive Committee chair Warwick Downing says the awards provide both recognition and connection for the region’s exporters.
“These awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible exporters in the Bay of Plenty who work tirelessly to bring New Zealand products and services to the world,” he says.
The programme features five categories, including Exporter of the Year, and highlights sectors ranging from horticulture to advanced manufacturing and services. Entries close on 8 June, with finalists announced on 10 July.
Meanwhile, entries have also opened for the ExportNZ ASB Hawke’s Bay Export Awards, with the gala dinner scheduled for 30 July.
Delivered by Business Central in partnership with ExportNZ, the Hawke’s Bay awards recognise exporters across a wider central North Island catchment, including Gisborne Tairāwhiti and Dannevirke.
This year’s programme sees ABB step in as Platinum Sponsor, following its win as 2025 Hawke’s Bay ASB Exporter of the Year.
Business Central CEO Hayley Horan says the awards reflect both the ambition of local exporters and the strength of the surrounding ecosystem.
“Hawke’s Bay exporters are globally competitive, innovative and incredibly resilient,” she says.
ASB Head of International Trade Mike Atkins says the awards are an opportunity to showcase export success stories across sectors, particularly manufacturing and innovation.
ExportNZ Central & Hawke’s Bay manager Amanda Liddle is encouraging businesses of all sizes to enter.
“Exporting takes commitment, courage and consistency… we encourage businesses of all sizes and stages to enter and be part of this year’s celebration,” she says.
Entries for the Hawke’s Bay awards close on 10 June, with categories including Excellence in Innovation, Best Emerging Business, Best Established Business, Service to Export, Unsung Hero and Exporter of the Year.
Both award programmes aim to highlight the role regional exporters play in driving New Zealand’s economic growth, while providing a platform for sharing insights and strengthening connections across the export community.
