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Tauranga Business Awards launch with new AI category for 2027

September 1, 2026

Awards evolve to recognise the changing face of business

Artificial intelligence has gone from buzzword to business tool, transforming how organisations operate, serve customers and create value.

Reflecting this shift, the Tauranga Business Awards have introduced a new AI Adoption and Impact category for 2027, alongside a new Excellence in Professional Services category.

The new categories signal how the awards continue to evolve alongside the business community they celebrate.

It recognises organisations shaping the next chapter of the Western Bay economy through innovation, bravery, and measurable impact.

Entries for the 2027 Tauranga Business Awards open on 1 September, inviting businesses of all sizes, sectors and stages to showcase the achievements, ideas and leadership driving the region forward.

Tauranga Business Chamber CEO Matt Cowley said the new categories reflect the realities of modern business and recognise organisations creating meaningful impact in a changing economy.

“AI has gone from a future trend to a business reality, and that’s exactly why we’ve introduced a category recognising organisations using it to create genuine value.

Why wait for the economy to improve?

Matt says businesses should not put off applying due the current economic conditions.

“These Awards aren’t about who’s biggest or who’s making the most money. Businesses across the Western Bay have been operating in challenging conditions, and success looks different for every organisation.

“Don’t wait for the economy to improve to consider entering. The judges like celebrating those who have taken calculated risks and are building something special and enduring,”

Deadline to enter is 12 October 2026 at 11:59pm

Entries are open until 12 October 2026, with businesses able to enter themselves or be nominated by customers and employees.

The 2027 Awards feature 10 categories covering areas including innovation, international trade, marketing, leadership and Māori and Pasifika business excellence.

The value of the Awards to the region

The Awards are proudly supported by headline sponsors Deloitte and Farmer Autovillage, who continue to champion business excellence across the region. Alexis Tapsell, Partner, Deloitte Tauranga says,

“As a proud co-sponsor of the Tauranga Business Awards programme, Deloitte is delighted to support an initiative recognising the businesses and individuals making a meaningful contribution to our region. The awards celebrate the ambition, resilience, and innovation that continue to define the Bay business community and provide a valuable opportunity for local organisations to reflect on their achievements and showcase their stories. We look forward to recognising the businesses and leaders in this year’s programme helping shape a strong, prosperous future for our region.”

What the judges think

Convenor of Judges Jamie Lunam said the awards offered far more than the chance to win a trophy.

“Business awards provide an opportunity to step back from the day to day, reflect on achievements and benchmark your business against the best. Every year we see remarkable examples of innovation, resilience and leadership emerging from our region.”

Once the entries have closed, judges will identify the finalists to present their application in-person before the end of November.

The People’s Choice Award, voted for by the public, will open later in the year.

All winners will be announced at the Tauranga Business Awards on 18 March 2027 at Mercury Baypark, bringing together business leaders, innovators and supporters from across the Western Bay to celebrate the region’s rising stars.

Businesses wanting to enter the Awards can find entry information and category details through the Tauranga Business Chamber at www.tauranga.org.nz/awards.