"Over 150 entries were received across the 13 categories. The new categories outperformed our expectations with Champion Business for Good receiving the most entries followed closely by both the Champion Service Delivery and Champion Innovation categories," said Champion Canterbury Ltd Chair and Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce CEO Leeann Watson.

"It is extremely encouraging to see the number of entrants in two other new categories, the Emerging Leader and Emerging Business awards highlighting the growth and opportunity of building and developing businesses and leaders in our region," said Ms Watson.Westpac‘s General Manager of Commercial, Corporate and Institutional, Karen Silk says it’s fantastic to see such a rich and diverse range of finalists recognised.

"Canterbury has long been an economic powerhouse and that’s down to the toil and tenacity of businesses across the region. These finalists exemplify those qualities and should be commended for their achievements. I can’t wait to see which businesses are crowned champions in their categories," said Karen Silk.

Final judging will take place in early September, with the winners announced at the annual Awards Ceremony on Wednesday 19 September. Celebrating its 16th year, the awards ceremony is set to attract over 1300 people from Canterbury’s business community.

"Once again we have an extraordinary collection of Canterbury businesses in the finalist field. It’s an exciting group of businesses and organisations who highlight all that is great about our region. The judges have a tough task ahead of them, and I wish all the finalists the very best," said Leeann Watson.

The Westpac Champion Business Awards are the largest and most prestigious awards ceremony of its type in New Zealand. The awards celebrate the success of the business community in Canterbury, and also highlight the positive contribution they bring to our community.