Congratulations to Zespri International Limited, named the Supreme Winner at the 2026 NZCTA China Business Awards, presented at the Gala Dinner on Thursday 11 June 2026 — and congratulations to all the Category Award Winners celebrated on the night.
The 2026 NZCTA China Business Awards drew together business leaders, government representatives, and members of the New Zealand–China trade community for a celebration of commercial achievement and partnership at its best. The 25 finalists across six sponsored categories reflected the full depth and breadth of the relationship — from horticulture and health innovation to food and beverages, technology, tourism, and trade services. Emerging companies alongside established exporters, New Zealand businesses alongside Chinese enterprises, several recognised across multiple categories: together they represent the diversity and dynamism of one of New Zealand's most important partnerships.
2026 China Business Awards Winners
Supreme Winner
Zespri International Limited
Category Award Winners
AUCKLAND AIRPORT
Award for Contribution to the Growth of Chinese Tourism in New Zealand
Finalists
- China Southern Airlines Company Limited
- China Travel Service NZ Ltd
- RotoruaNZ
- Whale Watch Kaikoura Ltd
NEW ZEALAND TRADE & ENTERPRISE
Award for Trade between New Zealand and China (Small & Emerging Business)
Finalists
- Apollo Foods Limited
- BLIS Technologies Limited
- Two Islands
- Pic's Peanut Butter
CHINA CONSTRUCTION BANK (NEW ZEALAND) LIMITED
Award for Trade between New Zealand and China (Large Business)
Finalists
- Grin Natural Products Ltd
- Silver Fern Farms Limited
- Spring Sheep Milk Co.
- Zespri International Limited
ATRAX GROUP
Award for Innovation in Business between China and New Zealand
Finalists
- EnPot Limited
- Maui Food Group Limited
- MitoQ Limited
- Nero Tapware Ltd
TE PUNI KŌKIRI
Award for Māori Business Contribution to the New Zealand–China Relationship
Finalists
- Hells Gate Geothermal Reserve & Mud Spa
- My Better Breathing Ltd
- New Zealand Live Fish Market Limited
- Two Islands
- Whale Watch Kaikoura Ltd
UNITED MEDIA SOLUTION
Award for Excellence in Services Trade between New Zealand and China
Finalists
- China Southern Airlines Company Limited
- China Travel Services NZ Ltd
- Huadu International Management Group Ltd
- Touchpoint CC (NZ) Ltd
NEW ZEALAND CHINA COUNCIL
Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution to the New Zealand–China Business Relationship
"Once again, our finalists and winners are an outstanding example of the diversity and strength in the market and reflect the dynamic nature of the trading relationship. It is wonderful to celebrate and shine the spotlight on so many examples of shared two-country success — so that others can be encouraged by and learn from them. We are particularly pleased to acknowledge achievements across multiple dimensions: companies large and small, new entrants and long-established players, spanning goods and services, and both New Zealand and Chinese-founded enterprises."
John Cochrane, Chair, NZCTA
The Gala Dinner was a fantastic evening — a celebration at a standout venue with great food, entertainment, and an enthusiastic crowd. Honoured guests included Minister Chris Penk, the Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand H.E. Wang Xiaolong, current and former members of parliament, and respected business leaders from across multiple industries.
Special congratulations to Zespri International, the Supreme Award Winner — their success in China reflects a long-term commitment to the market, built on deep distributor and supply chain partnerships, a strong on-the-ground team, and sustained brand investment.
Date : Thursday 11th June 2026
Time : 6pm – till late
Venue : New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), Auckland
Sponsors
Sponsorship Partner
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