
Sustainable Business Awards open for entries – and raise the bar for 2026
New Zealand’s longest-running sustainability awards programme is calling for entries, with expanded categories and a direct pathway to a global million-pound prize.

New Zealand’s longest-running sustainability awards programme is calling for entries, with expanded categories and a direct pathway to a global million-pound prize.

Christchurch’s Tait Communications has been named PwC Hi-Tech Company of the Year at the 2026 NZ Hi-Tech Awards, capping a record-breaking night for New Zealand’s third-largest export sector.

Entries have opened for the 2023 NZ Top Office Dog competition, coinciding with a poll revealing that 53 percent of dog owners would attend the workplace more often if they could bring their dogs. If there’s a pooch in your workplace, 60 percent of your colleagues will be more likely to choose to come into the office over working remotely, according to a new poll by Frog Recruitment. The poll of 1993 Kiwi workers highlights the New Zealand workforce’s ongoing affection for and support of dogs in the workplace and coincides with the opening of the annual search for the country’s top office dog. The eighth annual Frog Recruitment Top Office Dog competition calls for nominations in three categories: New

Finalists in the 2023 Diversity Awards NZ™ have been announced, with judges recognising 33 entrants for the mahi they’re doing to advance a culture of belonging in workplaces. Diversity Works New Zealand CEO Maretha Smit says selecting finalists was a difficult task, with an astounding range of entries in terms of depth and breadth. “The submissions this year demonstrated a better understanding of the awards categories and criteria, and included an array of evidence demonstrating the positive impact this mahi is having on the culture of organisations and the experience of the people who work within them.” The judging panel is looking forward to the next step in the process, finalists visits and interviews, which will provide greater insight into

Nelson-based Hybrid Bikes was both surprised and thrilled to receive a prestigious accolade last month at the 2023 Global Brands Magazine Awards. Hybrid Bikes was announced the “Most Innovative Leader – E-Bike, New Zealand” in recognition of its unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence within the industry. The Global Brands Magazine Awards honour companies who have performed extraordinarily well across a number of fields: Finance, Education, Hospitality, Lifestyle, Automobiles, and Technology. They acknowledge key players who “strive for fineness and provide a platform for recognition”. The awards also aim to identify industry leaders, create awareness about the significance of exceptional service delivery, and reward their performance with the ultimate global recognition. Frank Witowski, the Managing Director of Nelson-based Hybrid

Subway ANZ has awarded the 2023 Franchisee of the Year title to New Zealand business owner, Wendy Stewart, making her the country’s first winner in the award’s 30-year history. The award recognises a franchisee who stood out amongst their peers in the ANZ region, provided an exceptional contribution to building the brand, and saw success across multiple areas, including overall territory results; high sales and communication performance indicators; and positive contributions to local community. After 17 years in the Subway family, starting as a ‘Sandwich Artist’ to now owning three restaurants, Wendy was recognised by her territory team as an Outstanding Franchisee in 2022 and now credits the successful reception for the 2023 award to hard work and her team.

Entries are now open for the New Zealand International Business Awards 2023, celebrating the success of New Zealand exporters – of all sizes, across all sectors. Hosted by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise – Te Taurapa Tūhono, the NZIBA recognise achievements by emerging, medium and larger exporters in the fields of innovation, sustainability, online sales, brand storytelling, Māori excellence, women leaders and investment. New Zealand exporters are encouraged to enter the awards to celebrate their teams and their international successes, gain recognition amongst their peers, and inspire the next generation of change-makers. Previous finalists and winners have seen the impact that this recognition can have for their international relationships, with a vote of confidence from the New Zealand Government’s official

Entering the David Awards is a great way to build recognition and credibility for your business. All Kiwi businesses with up to 10 employees are encouraged to enter this year. For over a decade, The David Awards have recognised the unsung heroes in home and small businesses throughout New Zealand. In the same way David conquered the giant Goliath using only his shrewdness and a simple slingshot, these entrepreneurial “Davids” often punch well above their weight. The David Awards acknowledge the “Davids” who contribute so much to this country, their communities, their families and the Kiwi business landscape, while recognising the tenacity, courage and ingenuity that place these business owners firmly at the forefront of entrepreneurship in this country. The David
Upcoming event

Thursday 30 July 2026 | 7:00am – 9:00am
📍 Covert Theatre, 51 Mackelvie Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland
Everyone talks about the importance of business strategy, but what does it actually mean in practice? Strategy trainer Ryan Sproull cuts through the jargon to give SME owners a clear, practical framework for thinking strategically about their business.
Latest issue

Practical AI insights, Kiwi tech innovators, and the tools helping Kiwi SMEs compete on a global stage. It’s all packed into this special tech issue of NZBusiness.
Latest articles
Get practical insights, expert advice, and the latest from New Zealand’s SME community — delivered straight to your inbox in our fortnightly newsletter. Plus, access our latest digital issues anytime.