Love Taupō brought the tourism community together at its annual End-of-Year Christmas event, celebrating operators and individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the region in 2025. The evening recognised excellence, innovation, and sustainability across the visitor sector. Four awards were presented on the night.
Guardians of the Environment Award: Huka Honey Hive
Huka Honey Hive provides an immersive introduction to honey production and local mānuka ecosystems. Business owner Jo Saville and her team were recognised for their environmental stewardship, including supporting native tree planting, reducing packaging, sourcing locally, and embedding sustainability into operations.
Jo Saville said, “Just like the honey bee, whose small daily efforts create something extraordinary, we know that collective, consistent action is what drives lasting environmental impact. From the smallest tasting stick to the largest community project, we’re committed to ensuring our own hive leaves a positive and lasting impact on the land we love.”
Legacy in Action Award: Rapids Jet
Rapids Jet offers thrilling jet boat adventures on the Waikato River, combining speed, spectacular scenery, and expert local guides. Recently returned Rapids Jet employee, Amanda Blyth, was spotlighted for her versatility and dedication to the team, while maintaining efficiency and a positive attitude, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional customer experiences. The team thanked Amanda for her efforts, saying, “The only thing she doesn't do is control the weather for us - although she says she's working on that one!”
Evolution Award: Whakapapa Holdings 2024
Whakapapa Holdings 2024 operates the Whakapapa ski area, delivering world-class snow experiences to visitors. The team was acknowledged for their resilience and innovation since taking over in 2024, rebuilding operations with a focus on sustainability, strategic growth, and long-term value.
Whakapapa Holdings 2024 Guest & Revenue Manager Laura Wilkinson said, “Our commitment is to ensure Whakapapa remains a treasured destination and a vital contributor to the community for generations to come.”
Collaboration Award: Michele Frost, Tauhara North No.2 Trust
Michele Frost has been recognised for leading the region’s first Business Events co-governance group, uniting 15 operators and inspiring a $25,000 joint investment in the region’s first business events campaign. Her collaborative leadership demonstrated how shared vision and partnership can drive innovation, strengthen the local tourism sector, and deliver lasting benefits for the community.
Love Taupō General Manager, Patrick Dault, said the awards demonstrate the strength, creativity, and commitment within the region’s tourism industry.
“Tourism plays a vital role in Taupō’s economic and social wellbeing. These awards celebrate the passionate operators and individuals who enrich our visitor experience, care for our environment, support our communities, and work collaboratively for the benefit of the whole region. We’re proud to acknowledge the outstanding mahi shown this year.”
The awards invited nominations from across the industry, with final decisions made by a panel of local experts. Each category recognised a different aspect of excellence – from leadership and sustainability to partnership and long-term impact. The evening was a celebration not only of success, but of the collective passion that continues to make Taupō a world-class destination.
