The results are in for the Locals Choice Wanaka 20/21, presented by Lake Wanaka Tourism and Ignite Wanaka.

For four weeks in February, locals were asked to tell the two organisations about their favourite people, spots or businesses via an online survey. Locals got online to nominate their picks, with the top three from each category then taken through to be voted on by the community.

Yesterday (Wednesday March 31) all was revealed: Local’s top choices in a range of categories have been selected. 

Winners have been announced for a range of accolades, from best coffee (Little Black Caravan) to favourite local designer (Perriam) and best new business (The Coffee Dojo) to favourite adventure tourism company (Wildwire). 

“After a year almost to the day [since the Covid-19 lockdown], it’s great to be able to celebrate success with our business community,” Ignite Wanaka executive officer Naomi Lindsay said. 

“Amazing owners and their teams have shown incredible resilience in a tough year and the Local’s Choice is a great way to celebrate the small wins, every day.” 

The winners weren’t all businesses: People also voted on everything from their favourite bike track (Outlet Track) to their favourite hike (Rob Roy Glacier Walk) and their favourite local - or local of the year - (Bex Sarginson) to their favourite sustainability initiative (Wanaka Wastebusters).

Organisers said thousands of locals jumped online to support their favourite local places, people and businesses.

“This initiative was a way for us to celebrate the incredible businesses, and individuals who make Wanaka such a special place to both visit and live,” Naomi said.

To see the full results visit the Lake Wānaka website.

PHOTO: Supplied