Award Winners
Let's celebrate the winners of the 2023 Nelson Tasman Hospitality Awards!
Supreme Award
Trents Supreme Award - Individual
2023 winner - Steve Gardiner
The Outstanding Hospitality Professional has been a true leader in the Nelson hospitality community for an extended period of time. This person is a well-known personality through their continued involvement in the marketplace and is respected industry-wide for their business achievements and passion for the industry. They are a true brand ambassador for Nelson hospitality and willingly give their time and expertise on to the next generation.
Trents Supreme Award - Establishment
2023 winner - Hardy St Eatery
This is presented to an establishment who has been influential and has made a significant contribution to the hospitality industry. They are recognised for their pioneering spirit, energy, resourcefulness, and commitment to the hospitality industry.
Crew Members of the Year
Outstanding Barista
2023 winner - Nick Schryvers , Victus Coffee & Eatery
The Nelson region knows how to start the day right. This Outstanding Barista is on hand to help you recover from the night before or set you up for a day of adventure with a strong hit of caffeine. They are fast with the grind and deliver the perfect cup with a side of local knowledge. Whether it is iced, long, short, trim, full flat, flavoured, double or any combination of the above they nail it every time!
Outstanding Bartender
2023 winner - Nick Widley, Kismet Cocktail and Whiskey Bar
This Outstanding Bartender combines a strong knowledge of local products and culture with excellent mixology skills, a passion for their craft and outstanding customer service. They can shake up a classic or stir up something exciting and new. They are the backbone of a great night out and a fountain of knowledge to expertly match a drink to your meal. This person has the skill to make you feel right at home and also pour you the perfect drink to keep you coming back for more.
Outstanding Front of House Champion
2023 winner - Yasuko Abe, The Styx
The front of house champion is someone who an individual whose expertise shines through in every aspect. Their proactive approach elevates the dining experience, while their perceptive and tactful demeanor creates a comfortable atmosphere for patrons. Exceptional sales acumen goes hand in hand with their well-groomed appearance, epitomizing professionalism. A true team player, they seamlessly collaborate to enhance service standards.
Outstanding Accommodation Champion
2023 winner - Mike Walker, Prince Albert & Bridge Backpackers
This champion is someone who goes the extra mile for their guests, always well-groomed and a great team player.
Lumina Lamb Outstanding Chef
2023 winner - James Rutherford, Hardy St Eatery
This Outstanding Chef offers a unique blend of cultural exploration, use of exceptional local ingredients, and exciting new techniques. They are a key contributor to the city's culinary reputation. They lead and inspire their team to push food boundaries and their passion is evident in every dish that leaves their kitchen. Nelson opens its doors to the world and this Chef is an ambassador for the Aotearoa food scene.
Accommodation Suppliers of the Year
Outstanding Small Accommodation Supplier (1-25 rooms)
2023 winner - Ah House B & B
An accommodation provider (under 25 rooms) that delivers an exceptional experience for their guests, exceeding expectation. A combination of factors which emulates the "best of the best".
Outstanding Large Accommodation Supplier (25+ rooms)
2023 winner - Kimi Ora Eco Resort
An accommodation provider (over 25 rooms) that delivers an exceptional experience for their guests, exceeding expectation. A combination of factors which emulates the "best of the best".
Establishments of the Year
Outstanding Street Food/Ethnic Cuisine
2023 winner - Nahm
This Outstanding Street Food/Ethnic is exciting; offering food that is fast, tasty and authentic - the kind of food that you love to eat. Whether it transports you to another place or is a little taste of home this establishment is bringing flavour by the bag full!
Outstanding Cafe
2023 winner - Victus Coffee and Eatery
This is an establishment which offers an array of great food, superb coffee, fabulous staff, a comfortable ambience and standout customer service. For a quick coffee and bite to eat, a weekend brunch with friends or a weekday office away from the office, this Outstanding Cafe has you covered. This is a place where the Barista knows your name, your order, and quite possibly knows what time you will be dropping in!
Southern Hospitality Outstanding Bar
2023 winner - Red16
The Outstanding Bar has the perfect combination of great service, great atmosphere and great drinks. Their beverage list has something to suit everyone and is executed with style and professionalism. They are setting the standard of excellence in the industry and are not afraid to push the boundaries when it comes to innovation. Their staff provide you with a home away from home and keep you coming back for more.
OneMusic Outstanding Ambience & Design
2023 winner - East Street
This Nelson Venue has the WOW factor, great design, beautiful fittings and fixtures and a playlist that perfectly matches the vibe. Every detail has been thought through to create an experience from the moment you open the door.
Bidfood Outstanding Restaurant
2023 winner - Hopgoods and Co
This Restaurant has a fantastic menu complimented by an outstanding wine and beverage list. The establishment has professional and knowledgeable service with a welcoming ambience and style. Consistently at the top of their game all the element combine to deliver the perfect dining experience.
Outstanding Sustainability
2023 winner - Toad Hall
This award is presented to an organisation that inspires and leads others to make a difference through their sustainability practices. A warrior of change that embodies a culture designed to leave a positive impact on both people and the environment. Their menus are designed with thought and our future in mind.
Duncan Cotterill Outstanding Host Responsibility
2023 winner - East Street
An establishment showing that they care about the wellbeing of their customers, going above and beyond, offering a safe, fun environment.
Suppliers of the Year
Johnston Associates Outstanding Supplier / Producer
2023 winner - Bidfood Nelson
This Outstanding Sales Rep is an extension of your team. They know what you need, when you need it and sometimes it seems they even know before you do! They provide support for your business through their product knowledge, recommend solutions and are on hand with the best sellers. They are keen negotiators and also emergency delivery couriers. In short they are your business support team.
People's Choice Award
The Breeze Outstanding People's Choice
2023 winner - The Styx
This Nelson venue is an establishment that excels in customer service, consistency of product, welcoming ambience and style, attention to detail and is always willing to go the extra mile!