Inspired by similar events such as Wellington’s “Felix Awards”, Auckland’s “Lewisham Awards”, and Taranaki’s “Halamoana Awards“, in 2007 a group of enthusiastic Manawatu hospitality industry players formed a committee and were successful in establishing our very own Manawatu Hospitality Awards. These Awards are supported by the regional Restaurant Association (RANZ) and Hospitality Association (HANZ).

The Awards this year will be held at the Regent Theatre on Sunday 11th October.

The Regent Theatre is a 1600-seated magnificent venue which will reflect the excellence being celebrated. The Awards event will be run along the lines of an “Oscars/Golden Globe” type ceremony: a “Razzle-Dazzle”, high energy on-stage announcement of nominees from each category, followed by the announcement of the winner of each category.

The Awards event will take approximately an hour and a half, preceded by a welcome drink in the foyer for holders of after-party tickets. The ceremony itself will be open to the public and free to attend. VIP seating will be reserved for sponsors and Award nominees.

On conclusion attendees who have purchased a ticket will proceed to a post-Awards function. This will allow nominees, finalists and winners to celebrate their success, to socialise and to enjoy hospitality rather than to provide it.

The Awards event will be funded entirely by sponsorship from the industry whilst the post-Award function will be funded jointly by sponsorship and ticket sales.