Businesses across the Ashburton District are being encouraged to get their entries in for the ANZ Business of the Year Awards, ahead of the close-off on Friday 31 October.

The awards recognise and celebrate excellence in local enterprise and are open to organisations of all sizes and sectors.

Organisers say entries for the 2026 event are tracking well, with the Emerging Business, Excellence in Community Impact and Retail and Hospitality categories enjoying the most entries to date.

They are encouraging entries in the Tourism and Export categories.

Ashburton District Mayor Liz McMillan said the awards provide an important opportunity for businesses to be recognised for their innovation, resilience and contribution to the community.

“The district’s economy and community depend on the innovation and determination of local businesses, and we want to encourage them.

“If you're thinking about entering, please do, as these awards really help shine a light on the amazing work our local businesses do.”

Matt Turner, General Manager of Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa, says the awards increased the visibility of their business following their win in 2024.

“We were honoured to receive four ANZ Business Awards then, and also the prestigious Supreme award.

“This recognition not only elevated our brand visibility but also gave us a valuable opportunity to reflect on our journey and celebrate the dedicated team behind our continued success in delivering exceptional customer service.”

Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa were praised for their world-class visitor experience and commitment to sustainability.

The judges commended the organisation’s vision and the wider impact it has had in supporting tourism in Methven and surrounding areas.

In 2022,  the Supreme Award went to The New Zealand Sock Company.

The recognition brought increased public awareness and reinforced the business’s leadership in sustainable manufacturing and product development.

Business of the Year key details:

• Entries close: Friday 31 October 2025
• Eligibility: Businesses must be based in the Ashburton District and have been operating for at least 12 months
• How to enter: Visit businessoftheyear.nz to view categories and submit an application online
• Awards Gala: Finalists and winners will be celebrated at a formal event in February 2026, held at the Ashburton Aviation Museum’s Superhangar

Event partners for 2026 are ANZ, ANZCO Foods, Abbott Insurance Brokers, Canstaff, Catalyst Performance Agronomy, Crest Clean, Croys, Experience Mid Canterbury, Fox Peak Dairy, Mt Hutt, Naylor Love, New Zealand Bed Company, Spark, Talley's, Tavendale + Partners.