The Ōpōtiki iSite team are celebrating following a major win at the New Zealand Events Association (NZEA) Event Awards in Palmerston North on Tuesday night.
The 2023 Ōpōtiki Matariki Festival event was awarded Best Community or Not For Profit Event with under 3000 Attendees.
The festival had also been named a finalist in another category: Best Arts, Cultural & Heritage Event.
The annual awards honour the innovation, creativity and resilience of New Zealand's event industry, featuring 69 finalists across 17 categories. The finalists list puts Ōpōtiki's Matariki celebrations up alongside notable national events such as Warbirds over Wanaka, FIFA World Cup, charity balls and music festivals.
Iranui Huriwai, Council’s Experience and Engagement Coordinator said it was an honor to be named as a finalist and even more incredible to come away with the top award.
“We were alongside some really amazing events in our category and some big names in New Zealand events. Standing among the finest events in Aotearoa New Zealand, we couldn't be happier to showcase our efforts, our community, and our town through this accolade.
“Since its inception in 2018, the Ōpōtiki Matariki Festival has grown from strength to strength, and we are deeply grateful for this prestigious recognition.
“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and countless local organisations who came together to create an incredible and outstanding event in 2023.
Image: Ōpōtiki District Council.
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