Daniel Fasnacht (second from left) with his Peekaboo Eatery team. Photo / Smoke Photography
“Kaitāia has had a hard time for the last few years, so to be recognised at a national level is such an honour.”
Little did he know the award would bring in more customers and it was almost instant.
“Our Facebook account nearly exploded that day after the awards, with more than 15,000 clicks in a single day, which is huge for a small-town venue. Engagement has stayed strong since then.”
The surge online translates into real-world foot traffic. Weekends became busier with more out-of-towners making a trip to the eatery.
“On the floor, we feel it too. Weekends are busier with out-of-town visitors, and locals continue to pop in to celebrate with us, and we’ve hired additional staff to support the demand.
“For a regional business like ours, this steady uplift makes a real difference.”
Entries are now open for the 2026 awards, in Rotorua on June 23 and 24 as part of the Hospitality New Zealand conference.
Kristy Phillips, Hospitality New Zealand chief executive, encourages businesses to enter and celebrate the industry’s success.
“Each year, the Awards for Excellence provide an opportunity to showcase success stories, recognise exceptional people and venues, and celebrate the strength, creativity, and resilience of NZ’s hospitality and accommodation sector.
“Hospitality is central to the social fabric of our communities, and the awards are a fantastic opportunity to shine the light on the people and businesses that make our industry so great.”
Craig Baldie, Lion chief operating officer and New Zealand country director, said as a long-time sponsor of the awards programme, Lion was proud to continue supporting world-class hospitality.
“Great hospitality businesses are a key driver of our economy and at the heart of thriving communities and the Lion Hospitality NZ Awards for Excellence celebrate the passion, innovation and sheer hard work of our operators who continue to raise the bar and deliver world-class experiences every day, all around the country.”
A leading industry figure will also be chosen by the Hospitality NZ Board and inducted into the Hospitality Hall of Fame.
Entries close on March 31, and businesses across the food, beverage, and accommodation sectors are encouraged to enter multiple categories. Finalists will be announced at the award ceremonies in June.