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Winners crowned in Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards

Published on 24 October 2024

An iconic business that embodies the essence of the Hauraki and Coromandel districts has been crowned supreme winner at this year’s local business awards.

The Waterworks was awarded the supreme prize at the Richardsons Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards 2024 in Thames last night.

The quirky water-themed activity park was one of more than 30 finalists in 12 categories in this year’s awards, which also took the unusual step of awarding two winners of its Community Contribution category.

Dive Zone Whitianga and EPL Construction were named joint winners after the judges said they found it impossible to decide on only one.

Judges Mike Green, Sue Loder, and Ray Lewis said they were blown away by the passion, commitment, and drive shown by the finalists and how embedded each business was in the community.

They described Dive Zone Whitianga as more than just a business. It was a community hub where everyone who passed through was treated like family and “yes” was said to sponsorship, school groups, young people on work experience, donations of time, equipment, food and money, marine clean ups and carrying staff through winter.

Judges said EPL Construction demonstrated extraordinary commitment to community wellbeing, playing critical roles in events such as Cyclone Gabrielle and continuing to give a substantial amount of time, money, and supplies to core Whangamatā groups such as surf lifesaving, the rescue helicopter, rugby club, and the RSA. EPL also helped their community without hesitation by sharing knowledge to improve local systems, support schools, and help Council discussions to enhance infrastructure planning.

Judges said The Waterworks, which also won the Contribution to Tourism and Hospitality award, embodied the Hauraki and Coromandel essence through its vision, values, and culture which made a clear contribution to the region, particularly tourism.

Their deep business acumen, strong financial sustainability and strategic planning stood out, they said.

The judges noted The Waterworks’ strong commitment to environmental sustainability with active participation in Destination Hauraki Coromandel’s Forever ‘Good For Your Soul’ sustainability programme and their strong support of the local community.

“Their innovative, fun approach is reflected in the water park itself, and their bold pivot to diversify their offerings has already shown success, positioning them for future growth. Though a well-established business, The Waterworks has an impressive forward-thinking mindset, and core business acumen to match,” judges said.

Thames-Coromandel Mayor Len Salt said the awards and finalist placings were well deserved.

“Our businesses are integral members of our community, often making a huge contribution to all of those around them. These awards help to celebrate those who display the best in business but also the best in community. I’m proud of what they have achieved and their contribution towards making the Coromandel a place where people want to live, work and play.”

Hauraki Mayor Toby Adams said the awards were a great way to showcase the local business community and he was thrilled with the calibre of businesses in the finals.

“Congratulations to all the finalists, a brilliant representation of the unique innovative resilient, and high performing across the Hauraki and Coromandel districts.”

Woof Woof Ranch was named People’s Choice winner for Hauraki and Dive Zone Whitianga for Thames-Coromandel.

Hello World Travel Thames, Flowers on Pollen, Wāhi Tukurua, Ōpito Bay Salt, Coromandel Shelly Beach Top 10 Holiday Park, Bayleys Coromandel, Major Oak Safety Training and Evolution Fitness were also named winners of their respective categories.

Barbara Berry from Positive Paeroa, Jennifer Ashman from Coromandel-Colville Business Association, Monika Lange from Thames/Coromandel for their service to business.

The awards are jointly hosted by Thames-Coromandel and Hauraki district councils every two years.