Newsletter - 28 September 2026
Ata mārie,
2026 Waikato Business Awards - The Countdown is on!
There are only a few seats available for the 2026 Waikato Business Awards Gala Dinner, so if you’re planning to join us for Waikato’s biggest night of business, now is the time to secure your seats. This year also marks the return of the Waikato Business Awards Hall of Fame, with three exceptional inductees set to be recognised for their significant contribution to the Waikato business community. Last Friday, we announced the first of three inductees on our social media channels. Keep an eye out on our website and social media over the next couple of weeks as we reveal the final two.
Welcome, Hobbiton - Our New Platinum Sponsor!
We’re delighted to welcome Hobbiton™ Movie Set as a new Platinum Sponsor of the Waikato Business Awards and sponsor of the Service Excellence Award. One of New Zealand’s best-known visitor destinations, Hobbiton has built its reputation on delivering an exceptional experience to visitors from around the world, making this a natural fit for the category. We’re thrilled to have them on board and grateful for their support of the Awards.
We've Moved!
We’re excited to officially call Waikato Innovation Park our new home! You’ll now find the Waikato Chamber team in the Torutek Building, Ground Floor. If you’re in the neighbourhood, come and say hi or book your next meeting with us at Weave Eatery!
South Waikato Golf Day - Hole Sponsorship & Team Spaces are filling fast
With strong interest already in the inaugural Better Eggs & Ulimate Builders South Waikato Chamber Golf Day, only 5 hole sponsorship opportunities remain, and team places are also limited. Put your business in front of 100+ South Waikato and Waikato business people while supporting this exciting new business event.
Hole sponsorship:
Members $450 + GST | Non-members $550 + GST
Team places are limited - secure your sponsorship or team today.
Board Nominations and Notices of Motion
A reminder that Board nominations are now open, with a minimum of three positions available. If you are interested in contributing to the governance and future direction of the Waikato Chamber, we encourage you to put yourself forward.
Nominations close at 5.00pm Wednesday 30 September 2026.
Download the nomination form here.
Members wishing to submit a Notice of Motion must lodge it via email to Jenny by 5.00pm, Wednesday 30 September 2026. The Annual General Meeting will be held 5.00pm, Wednesday 28 October 2026 at the Ruakura Conference Centre, SkyPoint Building, Waikato Innovation Park. Register to attend here.
Waitomo Fuel Market Update
There’s some welcome news for Waikato businesses, with global oil prices easing and diesel margins coming back from recent highs. But while diesel costs may soften in the near term, significant risks remain across global fuel markets, and petrol isn’t seeing the same relief. In this latest fuel market update, Waitomo breaks down what’s driving the changes, what businesses should be watching, and how to manage fuel costs in a market that remains volatile. Read the full blog here.
Have a great week ahead,
The Chamber Team
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