News

2025 , Awards Announcements

Tickets on Sale now!

Tickets on Sale now! Book your seats at THE Business Event of the Year!

2025 , Awards Announcements , Winners & Finalists

We’re thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025 Unison Great Lake Taupō Business Awards! This year saw an incredible 33 finalists across seven judged categories, representing 17 outstanding local businesses – plus another 18 businesses chosen by the community for the People’s Choice Award. Judges praised the exceptional quality of entries, noting the passion, innovation, and pride shown by businesses big and small across our region. Congratulations to all the finalists – we can’t wait to celebrate with you at the Gala Awards Night on Friday 8 August!

2025 , Awards Announcements

Vote Now for People’s Choice!

Have your say in the 2025 People’s Choice Award! Vote for your favourite Taupō District business and go in the draw to win a Turangi staycation, including a night at Tongariro Lodge and a whitewater adventure with Tongariro River Rafting!

2025 , Awards Process

You’re a Finalist – Now What?

Get pitch-perfect for judging day! Watch our finalist webinar to learn how to structure your presentation, tell your business story with confidence, and impress the judges at the 2025 Unison Great Lake Taupō Business Awards. Packed with practical tips, this recording will help you prepare to shine.

2025 , Award Categories , Awards Announcements

Let the People Decide! Time for People’s Choice

Know a business that always goes the extra mile? Whether it's your go-to café, trusted tradie, or the quiet achiever who makes a real difference — now’s your chance to give them the recognition they deserve. Nominations for the Taupō & Tūrangi News People’s Choice Award are open until 5pm, Sunday 30 June. Nominate as many businesses as you like – just once per business, please!

2025 , Awards Announcements , Winners & Finalists

Finalist Announcement 8th July

Join us on Tuesday 8th July at the Great Lake Centre Theatre for the 2025 Unison Great Lake Taupō Business Awards Finalist Announcement. Doors open at 5.15pm for nibbles and networking, with announcements from 6pm sharp. RSVP by 3rd July to celebrate our region’s business champions!

2025 , Awards Announcements , Awards Process

Entries for 2025 are now closed!

Entries are now closed for the 2025 Unison Great Lake Taupō Business Awards – and what a response! We’ve had a record number of entries this year, and judging is now underway. Finalists will be announced on Tuesday 8 July, with the Gala Awards Night to follow on Friday 8 August. Stay tuned as we celebrate the best in Taupō business!

2025 , Award Categories , Awards Process , Blog , Enter Taupō Business Awards

Blog – Quick FAQs for Uploading Your Entry

Not sure how to enter the 2025 Unison Great Lake Taupō Business Awards? We've pulled together everything you need to know – from choosing your categories and saving your files to uploading supporting documents the right way. It’s not about being perfect – it’s about telling your story clearly. Entries close 5pm Friday 13 June, so let’s get you sorted!

2025 , Awards Process , Blog , Enter Taupō Business Awards

Blog – How to Write a Winning Business Bio (in 150 Words or Less)

Struggling to squeeze your business story into just 150 words? Don’t worry – we’ve got you. In this blog, we’ll show you how to craft a bio that’s clear, confident, and full of personality. Whether you’re a solo startup or a well-established brand, these tips will help you write a standout intro that captures what makes your business truly special.

Awards Process , Blog

Set for Success: How to Create KPIs That Actually Work

KPIs aren’t just fancy business jargon - they’re your secret weapon for making smarter decisions, tracking real progress, and getting your whole team rowing in the same direction. Whether you’re chasing growth, improving customer service, or entering the 2025 Unison Great Lake Taupō Business Awards, setting the right KPIs will help you focus on what really matters and tell your success story with confidence.

Awards Process , Enter Taupō Business Awards

Need a Hand with Your Entry? Book a Drop-In Session!

Need help with your Awards entry? Our free Drop-In Sessions are here to help you gain clarity and confidence. Book a 15-minute chat with a business mentor who can guide you on what the judges are looking for and how to bring focus to your answers. Entries for the 2025 Unison Great Lake Taupō Business Awards close on 13 June - don’t leave it too late!

Blog , Enter Taupō Business Awards

Blog – How to Tell Your Business Story (and Make It Stick!)

Your business story is more than just how you started — it's the heart and soul of what you do. It helps people connect with your brand, understand your values, and see the impact you're making. In this blog, we share simple tips to help you tell your story in a way that's clear, compelling, and authentically you.