Volunteer South has received major recognition with its selection as one of three finalists in the Westpac Otago Business Awards in the not for profit category.

The organisation operates across Wanaka and the wider Central Lakes area, as well as Dunedin, Waitaki and Invercargill, working with more than 400 organisations in total. 

“Volunteering is the backbone of our communities and our team works hard to ensure volunteering is a positive experience for all involved,” Volunteer South board chair Andrew Wiley said. 

“Research consistently shows that communities with higher levels of volunteering are safer, happier and more connected with volunteers’ health and wellbeing being positively impacted through their actions. Everything our team works towards supports this notion...”

Volunteer South extended its congratulations to the two other finalists in the not for profit category, Central Cinema and Dunedin’s Otago Museum. 

Three Wanaka-based businesses have also been selected as finalists in other categories.

Pembroke Patissiere is among the finalists for the Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality category, while Edgewater Hotel and PURE NZ Ice Cream are both contenders for the Sustainability and Resilience award. 

Pembroke Patissiere owners Matt and Kirsty Schmidt are up for the Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality awards.

Finalists for the annual awards are selected from a wide range of entries, following a careful selection process by a panel of independent judges. There are 18 awards in total and three or four finalists in each category.

“After such a rollercoaster year for business, it’s time to get out and celebrate business in the region...” Westpac said in a statement.

The winners of the awards will be announced at a gala dinner at the Dunedin Town Hall on Friday (November 13). 

The awards exist to recognise business journeys and celebrate excellence, innovation and success in business across the Otago region.

PHOTOS: Supplied