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Hospitality New Zealand has recognised leaders from across the accommodation, restaurant and supplier sectors at its 2026 People’s Awards for Excellence in Rotorua.
The awards, held on June 23, 2026 as part of the Lion Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence, celebrate individuals whose leadership, innovation and service have made a significant contribution to the hospitality and accommodation industry.
Hospitality New Zealand chief executive Kristy Phillips says the awards recognise people who are leading in their fields while also helping to shape the future of the sector.
“This is about recognising and applauding those who are not only leading the charge in their respective fields but are showing dedication to the sector and are inspiring the next generation,” Kristy says.
This year’s Hospitality Industry Leader of the Year award went to Nick Rogers of The Experience Collective, while Victoria Alexander of Nauti Penguin was named Future Leader of the Year.
Yuri Oliveira of DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington won Accommodation Leader of the Year, Wallace Mua of Trivet at JW Marriott Auckland took out Chef of the Year, and Jenni Powell of Both Brains was named Michael Friend Supplier of the Year.
DB managing director Peter Hart says the awards recognise the people who help set standards across the industry.
“We’re proud to support the Awards for Excellence again this year and to recognise the people at the heart of New Zealand’s hospitality industry,” Peter says.
The People’s Awards for Excellence were held alongside HNZ26, Hospitality New Zealand’s annual conference, which concludes on June 24 with the Business Awards for Excellence.
