2026 is going to be EPIC! The Stella Awards

The 2026 Stella Awards will shift gears, going back to the core principles of what makes doing business in Taupō so rewarding….which is putting customers at the centre of all that we do.

At the heart of this awards programme is one central question: how are you delivering an outstanding customer experience from end to end? Not just in the moment a customer walks through your door or scrolls down your page, but from the very first time they hear your name all the way to when they become your most loyal fans.

We want to compare apples to apples, so we’re returning to an industry-based programme, but still finding space for special recognition of our outstanding teams, owner-operators and comeback kids.

The entry form is still easily understood, manageable on your busy schedules, and comprehensive enough to capture a full customer and community experience.  The rewards for you and your business are limitless as you look back on mishaps and magnificence, take stock of what the how and why, and pat yourself on the back for all the hard yaka.  So, join us as we take you down the road of recollection, and then raise you up to the stage of success.

This is your opportunity to show Taupō what you’re made of. Tell us your story.

Stella Awards 2024 will celebrate businesses in the Taupō region that have shown incredible resilience over what has turned out to be a more up and down 2-year period than anyone could have ever guessed.

The old challenges morphed into new challenges, and yet businesses have hustled, dug in, stayed awake in bed, and poured more in than they ever thought they could.  We want to acknowledge these efforts and give business owners and frontline teams a reason to leave their burden at the door.

Once again, we will award both teams and individuals for their amazing achievements, rather than awarding for business size or industry.  The categories remain light-hearted and achievement focused, the entry form is still easily understood, and the process is as stream-lined as ever.  The team awards are for businesses that have stood together throughout the rollercoaster ride, and star performer awards for individuals who have been the shining lights of the business.

Applaud with us, laugh with us and hold back the empathy tears with us as we give the business community in Taupō an awards programme they all deserve.

We can’t wait to hear your stories and celebrate with you.  Let’s get excited for the Stella Awards in 2024!!