Waikato Chamber of Commerce Business Awards

Celebrating Waikato business brilliance

The finalists for the 2025 Waikato Business Awards, supported by Fosters, have been announced. Anticipation is now building for the Gala Dinner on Friday, 21 November. On the night, winners across eleven business categories will be revealed, along with the distinguished titles of Emerging Leader, CEO of the Year, and the Supreme Business of the Year.

What sets the Waikato Business Awards apart is the integrity of its judging process. Each entry is assessed by a panel of respected business leaders, meaning recognition comes directly from peers who understand the challenges, complexities, and triumphs of running a business. This makes every accolade not only an honour, but a genuine mark of excellence.

Entering the Awards requires dedication and reflection, but the process itself is immensely rewarding. Many entrants return year after year, valuing the judges’ constructive feedback as a powerful tool for growth and improvement. While only one business can claim the trophy in each category, every entrant who receives a judges’ visit gains valuable insights from experienced leaders committed to fostering business excellence across the region.

Countless past winners have shared that success did not come the first time they entered, but after applying the judges’ feedback and returning stronger in subsequent years, which is a true testament to the developmental power of the process.

The judging panel is led by Dr Heather Connelly, former senior

academic at the Waikato Management School and former Director of its MBA programme. She is supported by a team of more than 30 highly regarded Waikato business leaders, collectively bringing decades of commercial expertise. Together, they undertake the formidable task of assessing between 70 and 85 entries each year, carefully reviewing written submissions and conducting in-depth on-site interviews to gain a genuine understanding of each business beyond the page.

Past winners include:

CEO of the Year is a litany of Waikato leadership and includes Jon Calder from Tompkins Wake in 2018, Chris Joblin from Tainui Group Holdings in 2021, Lisbeth Jacobs of Gallagher Animal Management in 2023 and last year Pam Roa of Longveld Group.

Emerging Leader of the Year is always a hotly contested category, and winners include the likes of Renae Smart from Civtec who is now on the Board of Waikato Regional Airport, Jenni Falconer from Emergency Consult, and Kingsley Fink from Tristram Marine.

Supreme winners include Fosters back in 2017, Waitomo Group last year, Invivo Wines in 2023 and the mighty Profile Group in 2022.

The value for companies entering include:

Development for you and your business begins at entry Entering creates an opportunity to focus on your business in a structured

way and identify core strengths and competitive advantages as well as areas that may benefit from more focus in the future.

Improve

All entrants receive independent assessment and feedback from experienced judges; providing the business with independent advice to grow, develop and improve for business in general and for entering in future awards.

Goal Setting

Judges’ feedback supports internal goal setting for even further development for the business, its owners and employees.

Network

Participation in the awards provides networking opportunities with other business leaders and professionals, who are all striving for excellence.

Recognition of Success

Award winners receive public recognition of business success being acknowledged as the best in the

Waikato in your industry by your peers, the business community, media and potential employees.

Recruitment

Being an award finalist and/or winner provides credibility to attract key talent to your business.

Appreciation

The award process provides a platform that acknowledges the contributions made by your employees, suppliers, clients and others to your organisation’s success.

Publicity

Award participation provides another dimension for showcasing your services and products to a wider audience and enhances your reputation in your customer’s eyes.

Alumni

All finalists and winners will join past Waikato Business Award alumni and will gain recognition from the business community – promoting their achievements and assisting in growing the Waikato’s business success story.

Tolbecs Ear Clinic: Trusted Care, Modern Vision

Established in 1997, Tolbecs Ear Clinic has earned a reputation as a trusted provider of nurse-led ear care across Waikato. For over 25 years, the clinic quietly supported its community with dependable, personalised service.

In 2022, Tolbecs entered a bold new chapter with fresh ownership, a modern rebrand, and a renewed focus on innovation and excellence. That same year, it expanded by launching a second clinic in Rototuna, increasing access to high-quality ear care across Hamilton.

Today, Tolbecs is a leader in independent, nursespecialised ear health. Known for professional micro-suction treatments, the clinic prioritises comfort, communication, and long-term wellbeing. Patients receive tailored care from experienced nurses in a calm, welcoming environment.

Education and outreach are central to Tolbecs’ mission. Its signature Tolbecs Community Initiative offers free ear checks, tympanometry testing, and expert advice at events like Fieldays, Aspire, Wintec, and Women’s Refuge - reaching

thousands. In 2024, Tolbecs was named Hamilton’s Most Trusted Business and Most Trusted Ear Clinic, reflecting its commitment to service and community care. With deep roots and a clear vision, Tolbecs continues to evolve—setting new standards in ear health and helping people feel their best, one ear at a time.

The Rite Group: Local Roots, National Reach

Entrepreneur Troy Hillard founded The Rite Group in 2015 with a simple mission: deliver professional, affordable exterior house washing across New Zealand. What started as a one-brand operation quickly grew into a nationwide franchise network.

Today, The Rite Group includes four specialist service brands - Wash Rite, Lawn Rite, The Handyman Group, and Hallmark Services - serving communities from Whangārei to Invercargill. The company empowers everyday Kiwis to become business owners, providing the tools, systems, and support of a strong national brand while they operate locally.

At its core, The Rite Group remains true to its founding vision: helping people build successful businesses while delivering essential home and property services. Troy leads the business alongside a close-knit leadership team. Sarah Hillier ensures smooth operations and franchisee support, while Cameron Ryan drives branding, innovation, and future growth.

Together, they keep The Rite Group focused, adaptable, and always moving forwardproving that big dreams, backed by smart systems and strong values, can go a long way.

The Red Barn: Waikato’s Premier Event Destination

Founded in 2008, The Red Barn is a celebrated wedding and events venue nestled in the scenic Hinuera Valley, with sweeping views of Maungatautari and the Kaimai ranges. Each year, it hosts over 80 weddings, 20 corporate events, and offers exclusive, high-end tourism experiences.

Built on word-of-mouth success, The Red Barn was honoured at the 2023 Wedding Awards with both Venue of the Year and Event Planners of the Year titles.

The venue offers a seamless, allinclusive experience. On-site catering is led by Head Chef Harry Williams, complemented by expert event

planning and a curated Decor Hire service. Every detail is designed to ensure a smooth, memorable occasion. A standout offering is the “Taste of Waikato” degustation experience - a culinary journey celebrating the region’s rich flavours. Each course is crafted from locally sourced ingredients and tells the story of Waikato’s dedicated farmers and growers, connecting guests to the land and its people. With a reputation for excellence and authenticity, The Red Barn continues to set the standard for events in the region - where every celebration is elevated by stunning surroundings, heartfelt service, and a true taste of home.

Dedicated to improving health outcomes for our community

As the 100% shareholder of Braemar Hospital, Braemar Charitable Trust has been working for more than 50 years to advance health outcomes in the Waikato region.

Thanks to generous donors, the support of community-based funders, and procedures performed for free by surgeons and anaesthetists, the Trust enables life-changing surgeries and health interventions for those who need it most.

We are proud to be a finalist in the ‘For Purpose’ category at the 2025 Waikato Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

JetPark Hamilton: Hospitality With Heart

JetPark Hotel Hamilton is part of the 100% New Zealand familyowned JetPark Hotels group, founded in 1998 to deliver exceptional service grounded in care, comfort, and community.

Opened in 2019, JetPark Hamilton brings a fresh, purpose-driven approach to hospitality in the Waikato region.

Just a two-minute walk from Hamilton International Airport, the 62-room hotel is a trusted choice for leisure and corporate travellers. Guests enjoy 24/7 reception, free high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary parking, conference facilities, and the onsite Propeller Restaurant and Bar.

A 4.5-star satisfaction rating reflects JetPark’s commitment to guest care.

JetPark Hamilton caters to inbound

Asian travellers with inclusive practices such as multilingual signage, tailored food options, and cultural training. Corporate guests benefit from flexible bookings, modern workspaces, and the Stay & Park Package - developed with Hamilton Airport and Waikato Regional Airport Ltd.

Sustainability and community engagement are central to JetPark’s ethos, with waste reduction initiatives and support for NZ Blood Service drives and local fundraisers. What truly sets JetPark apart is its people. With a staff turnover of just 10%, the team delivers authentic, personalised service. As JetPark continues to grow, its focus remains on innovation, inclusivity, and hospitality that feels like home.

RML Machinery: Engineering

Innovation, Built in Waikato

Founded in 2007, RML Machinery is a proud Waikato-based manufacturing company specialising in automated endof-line packaging solutions. From its Hamilton headquarters, they design and build customised systems that boost productivity, enhance safety, and help manufacturers compete globally.

In late 2024, RML opened a purposebuilt facility in Burbush - an investment that reflects the company’s long-term commitment to the region as a hub for production excellence, career growth,

and innovation.

Even though customers come from around New Zealand, RML’s roots remain firmly in Waikato. Expansion into international markets – especially Australia – is happening but that Waikato connection remains strong.

It actively supports the local talent pipeline through apprenticeships, internships, and partnerships with FutureForce Waikato, WECA, and training providers. The team of 70+ skilled professionals includes many locally trained in mechanical, electrical, automation, and manufacturing disciplines.

National recognition came in 2024 when RML was named finalists in the Best Places to Work New Zealand Awards - the only manufacturing company in the category. This honour reflects the company’s valuesdriven culture, leadership development and commitment to wellbeing.

With every system RML builds and every apprentice it trains, they are helping shape the future of manufacturing - locally and globally.

Deep Dive Division: Innovation Beneath the Surface

Deep Dive Division is a Waikatobased commercial and scientific diving company providing nationwide services.

Founded in 2018 by Tua (Samoa) and Courtney Karalus (Ngāti Hauā), it is Aotearoa’s only Māori and Pacific-owned business. Grounded in Te Ao Māori, Pacific perspectives, and Mātauranga Māori, the company delivers sustainable, culturally informed solutions that prioritise environmental integrity.

With over 25 years of diving experience and a background in environmental science and engineering, Tua blends technical expertise with kaitiakitanga and water innovation.

Deep Dive Division offers a wide range of commercial and environmental services, including infrastructure maintenance, reservoir inspections, salvage, underwater construction, ROV and AUV operations, eDNA testing, biosecurity, and seaweed cultivation.

A standout innovation is Peara - a patented regenerative reef system designed to combat water

degradation. Equipped with sensors, Peara restores biodiversity, supports carbon capture, and provides valuable environmental data.

From film safety diving to aquaculture support, Deep Dive Division empowers clients with data-driven insights for sustainable decision-making. With a mission to strengthen the bond between people and the natural world, the company is redefining underwater services through cultural values, science, and technology - helping restore and protect New Zealand’s aquatic ecosystems.

Braemar Charitable Trust: Advancing Healthcare Equity in Waikato

Braemar Charitable Trust is a Waikato-based charity committed to improving healthcare equity.

Established in 1971, the Trust fully owns Braemar Hospital - one of New Zealand’s largest private hospitals -originally founded by nursing sister Frances Young in 1926.

In 2001, the Trust rebranded and, ahead of its 50th anniversary, appointed a dedicated manager to drive its vision and strategy.

Over the past 18 months, the Trust has

Hamilton

Woop woop! A big congratulations to Chelsea, our Business Advisory Manager at PKF Hamilton, who has been named a finalist for the Emerging Leader category in the Waikato Chamber Awards.

Chelsea oversees people and performance at PKF, leading a team of 30 accountants and administrative support staff. She attributes the firm’s success to its people and culture, which she describes as the “secret sauce” of a thriving business.

We asked Chelsea to share some quickfire insights into life at PKF and why she loves what she does.

“PKF Hamilton – truly a workplace that is hard to beat! We are locally owned and operated by a team of seven fastpaced and supportive Directors, but we also have the benefit of being part of a global network with over 500 offices worldwide. This allows us to remain agile and responsive to our local market, while also leveraging knowledge and resources from around the globe. Across our team we have a treasure trove of skills and experience – some truly incredible minds! But what really binds us all together is a shared purpose of supporting our clients in the best way possible, a genuinely empowering work environment, and an underlying spirit of strong work ethic balanced with an unwritten rule that we must have fun along the way.

amplified its mission: increasing access to life-changing surgeries, growing its profile, and attracting funding beyond hospital dividends. Its flagship Community Surgery Programme delivers free surgeries to those in need. In the last financial year, surgeries increased by 124%, with referrals up 162%. Over 700 hours were donated by credentialed specialists, anaesthetists, and hospital staff - many choosing Braemar specifically to support this initiative.

Unlike typical charity hospitals, Braemar

I believe that people perform best when they are understood and feel valued. Success, hopes and dreams look different for everybody and that’s something we really take the time to understand. If you’re after some of the best accountants and advisors in town, our team and I are dedicated to delivering just that!”

Chelsea’s recognition as Emerging Leader highlights her dedication not just to client success, but to fostering a workplace where people can grow, thrive, and enjoy what they do.”

Good luck to all the finalists - we look forward to celebrating your success at the gala night!

www.pkfh.co.nz

operates daily and performs complex procedures requiring overnight stays.

Its unique structure allows it to reduce pressure on the public system by delivering surgeries for Te Whatu Ora and ACC, while also funding research and capabilitybuilding.

Medical Associates - long-serving specialists -help shape strategy through board appointments, ensuring Braemar remains responsive to evolving health needs and continues to champion equity across the region.

e Red Barn

Waikato’s Premier Event & Function Venue

Nestled in the heart of the Waikato, The Red Barn is a premium event and function centre offering exclusive use for your next business conference, strategy meeting, product launch, or team-building day.

With a variety of versatile event spaces, The Red Barn caters to both large and intimate gatherings. The main dining room comfortably seats up to 150 guests, complete with breakout areas for added flexibility. For smaller, more personal events, The Shed offers an inviting and authentic setting for up to 60 guests.

Led by award-winning Head Chef Harry Williams, our in-house catering team delivers tailored dining experiences - from energising conference breakfasts and light morning teas to elegant plated lunches and gourmet dinners.

Experience sophistication, seclusion, and service that exceed expectations - all surrounded by breath taking rural views.