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There were hugs, laughter and happy tears as Katikati and Waihī Beach’s communities came together at Fairview Golf and Country Club on September 3.
Co-hosted by Katch Katikati and Waihī Beach Events and Promotions, sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson and supported by Western Bay of Plenty District Council, the 2026 Katikati and Waihī Beach Excellence Awards night saw people put the daily grind aside and celebrate those who make the region such a great place to live, work and do business.
“Seeing the genuine pride and excitement in the room as our local businesses, organisations and community champions were recognised for their outstanding mahi [work] was memorable,” Katch Katikati event manager Kylie Watkins said.
“It was particularly rewarding to see people from Katikati and Waihī Beach in unity while celebrating strength and diversity of our local community.”
The night’s three local guest speakers – Project Parore’s Brodie Davis, Jason Topp from SMYD Accounting and Chris Simpson from Major Events Group – shared their extraordinary stories.
Main guest speaker, former MasterChef New Zealand winner, qualified dietitian, author, and My Food Bag co-founder Nadia Lim did a Q&A.
And with 121 nominations across 11 categories, Watkins said there was no shortage of deserving award contenders. “The most striking thing was the humility of the people being celebrated. Time and again, nominees were quick to credit their teams, customers, families or wider community rather than themselves. That spirit was reflected by the winners too.”
The winners
Katikati Four Square won the Retail Excellence award for transforming its store into a thriving community hub, supporting schools and events, keeping prices low and actively listening to what locals want.
Out of the Wild Petfood was second, recognised for growing from a Katikati store into a trusted New Zealand-owned brand.
Beach Road Deli won Small Business Excellence and took second in Hospitality Excellence. In 18 months, the business had grown into a destination, adding a food truck and bar, employing locals and supporting community events.
Debrief Cafe claimed Hospitality Excellence for creating a welcoming, family and dog-friendly destination where customers are made to feel at home.
The Katikati A&P Show took Event of the Year for continuing a proud tradition dating to 1913. Its 101st show attracted more than 3000 people, bringing together farming, home industries, entertainment and community spirit. The Echo Walking Festival was second, for its 44 guided walks celebrating local history, nature, culture and wellbeing.
Jan de Faye was named Employee of the Year following 18 years’ service to the Katikati Community Centre.
Michael Williams received the Sportsmanship Award for his on-water achievements and work encouraging others into the sport.
Andrew Cochrane was named Local Hero after more than three decades of service as a police officer and Waihī Beach lifeguard, including his commitment to search and rescue.
Dez Procter of the Handyman Can took Tradesperson of the Year for his honest, reliable work and willingness to go the extra mile for people.
Reon Tuanau was named Cultural Ambassador of the Year for sharing the cultural history of Bowentown and strengthening connections between Te Whānau a Tauwhao and the wider community.
Athenree Hot Springs and Holiday Park claimed Tourism Provider of the Year, while Waihī Beach Lifeguard Services Inc was named Organisation of the Year after more than 90 years of keeping the coastline safe. Renaturing Katikati took second for the contribution of its volunteers to restoring native biodiversity.
Watkins said feedback received included the night was “fantastic”, people “learned a lot from others” and many “wanted to be involved again”.
“The awards delivered their share of excitement, but the real winner was the community. Because behind every business, organisation, event and achievement are people who care deeply about where they live.”