Hospitality New Zealand has revealed the finalists for the 2025 Lion Hospitality NZ Awards for Excellence.
The announcement comes ahead of the HNZ25 conference, set to take place at Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre on 10 and 11 June.
This year’s event, themed “Thriving Together,” will bring the industry together to celebrate collaboration, leadership, and resilience.
“The calibre of this year’s finalists speaks volumes about the talent and tenacity driving our industry,” says Steve Armitage, Chief Executive of Hospitality New Zealand.
“Each one reflects the energy, care, and creativity that hospitality in Aotearoa is known for.
“The Awards for Excellence are our opportunity to acknowledge those individuals and businesses who are raising the bar through their commitment to excellence, and we’re proud to recognise their impact and celebrate their success.”
The awards will be presented over two evenings at HNZ25.
On Tuesday 10 June, the People’s Awards for Excellence recognises outstanding individuals, from emerging talent to inspirational leaders.
On Wednesday 11 June, the Lion Hospitality Business Awards will spotlight venues who are setting the standard in innovation, sustainability, customer experience, and overall excellence.
The on-premise finalists are:
Hospitality Industry Leader of the Year, sponsored by DB
Emma Faith – Toastie Lords
Damien McDowell – Stonyridge Vineyard
Kristine Kilpatrick – Craggy Range
Daniel Fasnacht – Peekaboo Backyard Eatery
Steve Kelly – Market ST
Michael Friend, Supplier of the Year, sponsored by HNZ
Jill Polson – Lion
Both Brains – Both Brains
Best Local, sponsored by Sky
Morningside Tavern
Nanam Takapuna
The Keg Room
The Richmond Club
Thistle Inn
Best Entertainment Venue, sponsored by One Music
Glasshouse Morningside
Jack Hackett’s
The Church Pub
Wynyard Pavilion
Best Bar, sponsored by Campari
Little Blackwood
Madame Social. (Market Hospitality Group Ltd)
Moon Under Water
Rambler at Drifter
Sprig + Fern Tawa
The Freeport with Cleaver & Co.
Tipsy Oyster
For the full list of finalists, click here.
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