Source: EMA
Entries are now open for the ExportNZ ASB Bay of Plenty Export Awards 2026, encouraging local exporters to showcase their achievements on the world stage and be recognised among the region’s best.
The prestigious awards gala will be held on 7 August at Mercury Baypark in Mount Maunganui, celebrating the exceptional achievements of Bay of Plenty businesses exporting goods and services to global markets.
The event, organised by the EMA and ExportNZ, in partnership with NZTE, is proudly supported by principal sponsor ASB, as well as Air NZ Cargo, Port of Tauranga, Zespri, Page Macrae and Sharp Tudhope.
Warwick Downing, Chair of the ExportNZ BoP Executive Committee, says the event is a platform to recognise outstanding businesses, and a prime opportunity for networking and knowledge-sharing.
“These awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible exporters in the Bay of Plenty who work tirelessly to bring New Zealand products and services to the world,” says Downing.
“Equally important is the opportunity they provide to bring the exporting community together, to share stories, challenges, and insights that help drive the sector forward.”
Greg Jarvis, Founder/Director of Bluelab and an awards judge, says the awards underscore the importance of recognising success in the region.
“The Bay of Plenty has a rich history of innovative and forward-thinking exporters who have built a reputation for excellence on the global stage,” says Jarvis.
“These awards are a chance to celebrate that success while also fostering a culture of learning, community and connection across the BOP export sector.”
Mike Atkins, Head of Trade Finance at ASB Bank, says “We are delighted to once again partner with the ASB Bay of Plenty Export Awards in 2026, building on the strong success of last year’s event. ASB is proud to support and celebrate the exporters who are driving growth, innovation, and international success for the region.
“At ASB we are passionate about enabling exporters to scale up, be it through working capital and debt capital funding or other advisory initiatives across productivity, sustainability, food and fibre.”
From its world-renowned kiwifruit and avocados to high-quality timber and dairy products, the Bay of Plenty showcases a diverse range of goods that reach international markets.
The awards are organised by the EMA on behalf of ExportNZ. According to EMA Head of Membership & Export Simon Devoy, the awards highlight the dedication and skill of the people who drive this success.
“ExportNZ is proud to recognise the Bay of Plenty’s role in bolstering New Zealand’s export sector,” he says.
“The theme of the awards gala on 7 August at Mercury Baypark Stadium Lounge is ‘On the World Stage’. It promises to be a night of celebration and fun.”
The awards feature five categories, including the coveted Exporter of the Year, and are judged by a panel of experienced export specialists from ExportNZ, NZTE and ASB.
The award categories are:
- Air NZ Cargo Best Emerging Business: Celebrating early-stage export success.
- Port of Tauranga Excellence in Innovation: Acknowledging businesses that have successfully commercialised innovation internationally.
- Zespri Unsung Export Hero – Outstanding Individual Contribution: Honouring an individual who has made a significant material contribution to export growth, often behind the scenes.
- Page Macrae Services to Export: Recognising the significant and sustained contribution of an individual or organisation to exporting success.
- Sharp Tudhope Exporter of the Year: Recognising established businesses with a strong track record in export markets.
Key dates for the 2026 awards:
- March 26 – Launch & entries open; tickets go on sale
- June 8 – Entries close
- July 10 – Finalists announced
- August 7 – Awards gala
Businesses looking to enter the awards or purchase tickets can visit www.bopexportawards.co.nz
