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Nominations have officially opened for The Bizzies Awards 2026, recognising excellence, innovation and leadership across New Zealand’s business events sector.
The awards celebrate individuals, organisations and initiatives delivering outstanding outcomes across Aotearoa’s business events industry.
Now in its second year, The Bizzies aim to recognise achievement across a wide range of categories including innovation, marketing, sustainability, emerging talent and leadership.
Industry recognition
Open to nominees from across the wider business events ecosystem, the awards are designed to highlight those making a meaningful contribution to the sector.
The Bizzies co-chair Rachel Cook says the awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the breadth of talent across the industry.
“We are proud to open nominations for The Bizzies Awards for 2026 and encourage the industry to recognise the exceptional work being delivered across our sector,” Rachel says.
“From behind-the-scenes contributors to industry leaders, The Bizzies are about celebrating the people and teams who elevate business events and shape the future of our industry.”
Queenstown success recognised
The inaugural awards in 2025 saw Destination Queenstown recognised for its Electrify Queenstown summit, which won both the Business Event Award for Legacy Impact and the Excellence in Environmental Sustainability Award.
Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism chief executive Mat Woods says the recognition provided strong encouragement for the team behind the event.
“It reinforced that the conversations we are having around electrification, resilience and energy innovation are resonating well beyond our region,” Mat says.
“The recognition also gave the team confidence to think even bigger for 2026.”
Electrify Queenstown returns from 17-19 May with an expanded programme featuring speakers, practical sessions, community events and a political debate involving government ministers and party leaders.
Awards ceremony in Christchurch
Nominations are open to both members and non-members of Business Events Industry Aotearoa, including professional conference organisers, venues, destinations, suppliers, agencies and event professionals.
Self-nominations are accepted, alongside peer nominations.
Winners will be announced at The Bizzies Awards 2026 ceremony on October 28 at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre.
Key dates include:
Nominations open: 14 May 2026
Nominations close: 6 July 2026
Awards ceremony: 28 October 2026
Further information and nomination details are available on The Bizzies website.
