Stay ahead in the hospitality and accommodation sector with the latest updates from Hospitality New Zealand.

Our News & Media section offers a comprehensive view of industry developments, including our latest media releases, member updates and stories, expert opinions, and emerging trends.

Keep informed and connected with valuable insights that impact your business and the broader industry.

For all media enquiries, please email media@hospitality.org.nz.

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The Family Endeavour that Built an Iconic Christchurch Hotel

What does it take to become a true icon of genuine Kiwi Hospitality? From humble beginnings to one of the most recognised hotels in Christchurch, the Commodore Hotel is a story of family grit, guest…

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Local Government Positions Document

Hospitality is a cornerstone of community life, a major employer, and a key part of local economies. Yet our sector continues to face some significant challenges, from funding shortfalls to…

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Thistle Inn embarks on their winning trip to Taste Port Douglas

We still can’t quite believe it — we were lucky enough to win a trip to Taste Port Douglas through the Estrella Damm Top 50 New Zealand Gastropub Awards, thanks to our dish perfectly matching with…

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Future Leaders

Media Release: NCEA reform presents opportunity for Hospitality

Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) acknowledges the Government’s proposal to replace the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) with a new set of national qualifications…

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Media release: Surcharge ban may shift costs rather than eliminate them

Hospitality NZ supports the Government’s proposal to ban surcharges on card payments, but cautions the move could result in increased costs being absorbed into general pricing for many hospitality…

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MEDIA RELEASE: HOSPITALITY NZ SUPPORTS STRONGER TRESPASS LAWS TO PROTECT BUSINESSES

Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) supports the Government’s proposed changes to the Trespass Act, and believes they will help protect hospitality venues, staff, and patrons from repeat…

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Leadership Transition at Hospitality New Zealand

On behalf of Kristy Phillips, National President, Hospitality New Zealand: Steve Armitage, our Chief Executive, has made the decision to step down from his role and will be leaving Hospitality New…

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Media release: NEW ZEALAND’S BEST HOSPITALITY AND ACCOMMODATION BUSINESSES RECOGNISED

The winners of the 2025 Lion Hospitality New Zealand Business Awards for Excellence were announced last night at a sold-out black-tie event held at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre…

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MEDIA RELEASE: Hospitality New Zealand Acknowledges Outgoing President, Welcomes New Leadership of Association

Hospitality New Zealand is acknowledging the contribution of outgoing president, Nick Keene, and welcoming new president, Kristy Phillips, a change of leadership confirmed at today’s Annual General…

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MEDIA RELEASE: Hospitality New Zealand Acknowledges Release of Tourism Roadmap

Hospitality New Zealand is today acknowledging the release of the Government’s Tourism Roadmap. Steve Armitage, Chief Executive of Hospitality NZ, says “We’re pleased to see the Government’s intent…

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MEDIA RELEASE: INDUSTRY LEADERS RECOGNISED AT THE 2025 PEOPLE’S AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Key people from across New Zealand’s hospitality and accommodation sectors have been recognised this evening at the 2025 People’s Awards for Excellence, held as part of the 2025 Lion Hospitality New…

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MEDIA RELEASE: HOSPITALITY SECTOR RECONNECTS AS HNZ25 GETS UNDERWAY IN WELLINGTON

The Hospitality New Zealand Conference and Trade Show, HNZ25, opened today at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, welcoming operators, suppliers, and industry leaders from across the…

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MEDIA RELEASE: Hospitality New Zealand Announces Finalists for 2025 Lion Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence

Hospitality New Zealand has revealed the finalists for the 2025 Lion Hospitality NZ Awards for Excellence, recognising the country’s leading individuals and businesses in hospitality and…

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Budget Must Include Hospitality on the Menu

Later this week, the Government will announce its budget against a backdrop of swirling economic conditions here and abroad. Hospitality, like all other sectors of New Zealand’s economy will be…

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Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo a Win for Auckland

The announcement that the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will travel to Auckland in February 2026 is great news for hospitality and accommodation businesses, says Hospitality New Zealand…

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NZ Verify App

MEDIA RELEASE: VERIFICATION APP TO PROVE A GAME-CHANGER FOR IDENTITY CHECKS

Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) is today welcoming the launch of the NZ Verify/Whakatūturu App, verifying international digital credentials. Hospitality NZ Chief Executive, Steve Armitage…

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MEDIA RELEASE: Counting Down to Hospitality NZ Conference & Trade Show #HNZ25

The countdown is on for the Hospitality New Zealand Conference and Trade Show, #HNZ25, with a stellar line-up of speakers and events confirmed for New Zealand’s largest hospitality and accommodation…

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Nelson Tasman Awards

Media release: NELSON TASMAN HOSPITALITY AWARDS CELEBRATE THE BEST OF THE REGION’S HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

Nelson-Tasman’s best hospitality and accommodation venues have been recognised tonight at the 2025 Nelson Tasman Hospitality Awards. Hosted by Hospitality New Zealand, the awards are dedicated to…

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