2025 Entries Now Closed – Judging Has Commenced for the Best in Hospitality & Accommodation!
The 2025 Lion Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence are well underway! As the premier hospitality awards programme in Aotearoa, this is where we celebrate the industry’s highest achievers and the incredible mahi happening across the motu.
Now in its 27th year, the Awards for Excellence honour outstanding businesses and individuals across the hospitality and accommodation sectors. From bars and cafés to hotels, motels, and entertainment venues – our finalists represent the very best in the business.
Judging is now underway, and anticipation is building ahead of the big night!
Get Your Tickets Now
Why Attend the Awards Night?
✅ Celebrate with the industry’s finest – connect, network and be inspired
✅ Support your peers and recognise their outstanding achievements
✅ Be part of an unforgettable evening that showcases excellence in hospitality
✅ Enjoy great food, entertainment and the best of Kiwi hospitality
2025 Award Categories
Business Awards for Excellence proudly sponsored by Lion
- Best Destination Venue
- Best Local
- Best Gaming Venue
- Best Entertainment Venue
- Best Bar
- Best Cafe
- Best Restaurant
- Best Hotel
- Best Motel
- Best Accommodation Provider (Non-Hotel/Motel)
- Sustainability Champion Award
People's Awards for Excellence proudly sponsored by DB
- Accommodation Industry Leader of the Year
- Hospitality Industry Leader of the Year
- Michael Friend Supplier of the Year
- Future Leader of the Year
- Chef of the Year
Key Dates
-
Entries Closed: 9 April 202
- People Choice Voting Closes 12 May
- Judging period: 12–23 May
- Finalists announced: Last week of May, once all judging is complete
-
Winners Announced at the Awards Gala: 10 & 11 June 2025
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the biggest celebration in New Zealand’s hospitality calendar. Buy your tickets today and join us as we crown this year’s champions!
