Entries open for 2026 CBD business awards

Nominations have just opened for the annual Love the Centre Business awards.

The awards are for businesses based in Hamilton’s CBD, and have 10 categories ranging from retail to professional services, hospitality and activities.

Nominations are open for five weeks and members of the public are encouraged to get involved and nominate their favourite businesses.

Vanessa Williams, General Manager of the Hamilton Central Business Association said “The awards encourage retailers to step back from the day-to-day demands of running a business and reflect on their successes”.

Vanessa Williams, the General Manager of the Hamilton Central Business Association. 
Photo: Cheryl Voss 

She said businesses can show a range of achievements, “whether that’s introducing new initiatives, improving the customer experience, growing the business, or making a positive contribution to the town centre”

Judges will look for evidence of what a business has achieved over the past 12 to 18 months, including responding to new opportunities.

One of these is the return of international flights to Hamilton, which Williams said had seen an increase in overseas shoppers to the central city.

The new arrivals are challenging businesses to target the different markets, make changes and adapt.

Williams said multiple award recipient, gift and homeware store Journey & Co, was an example of a retailer which had adapted their business to what suits their audience.

After nominations close on 30 August, judging will take place throughout September with the awards celebrated in a presentation night in October.

The venue will be announced shortly before the presentation evening by Williams who is also one of the judges.

More details: https://www.lovethecentre.co.nz/awards/