Three local businesses have been named finalists in the 100% Pure New Zealand Experience Awards 2021. 

Glen Dene Hunting and Fishing, Ridgeline Adventures, and Wildwire Wanaka are among 47 Qualmark partners announced this week as finalists.

The entries for the awards were of an exceptionally high standard, complementing the achievements they have already exhibited to be Qualmark Gold awarded partners, judging panel chair Sue Parcell said.

She said the entries reflect the enormous contribution that tourism businesses make to communities in which they operate.

“These are operators that have the elements of manaakitanga, tiaki and whānau firmly embedded in their offering and during the past 18 months they have continued delivering an outstanding experience for domestic visitors,” she said.

Sue said the businesses have also supported and engaged with their local communities and team members through a broad range of positive initiatives. 

“We have been impressed by the high calibre of entries received for these awards, and the judging panel have been inspired and amazed by what they have seen.”

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Christchurch Art Centre on July 28.

Qualmark independently validates tourism businesses.

PHOTO: Supplied