Recognised among New Zealand’s best, the Wairarapa Events Centre has been awarded the coveted Ticketmaster Small Venue of the Year 2025 at the EVANZ Awards, celebrating excellence and innovation in venues nationwide.
Katring King, Victoria Bates, Erin Banks, and Ashleigh McLeod of the Wairarapa Events Centre, with Sarah-Emma Gandy of award sponsor Ticketmaster.
The award was announced at the Entertainment Venues Association of New Zealand (EVANZ) end-of-year conference at Mystery Creek, Hamilton. It recognises excellence among venues with capacities of up to 1,000 seats and celebrates innovative, community-focused delivery.
Judged through a blind process by an independent panel of industry experts, the EVANZ Awards honour the people and venues that consistently deliver outstanding experiences for audiences across Aotearoa.
Erin Banks, Wairarapa Events Centre Manager, attended the conference and awards ceremony with the team.
Erin says the recognition reflects the strength and collaboration within the region’s venues sector.
“This award for the Wairarapa Events Centre is something the whole district can be proud of.
“When venues champion each other and share expertise, the entire community benefits. This win reflects the collaborative spirit across the Wairarapa and our shared commitment to delivering high-quality, community-focused events.”
Erin said celebrating the moment alongside colleagues Victoria [Bates], Katrina [King], and Ashleigh was a highlight of the week, acknowledging the hard work and dedication behind the achievement.
Vincent Waru and Simon Raynor complete the Events Centre team.
Sally-Anne Coates, EVANZ General Manager, said the awards showcase the professionalism and passion of those working behind the scenes nationwide.
“We had strong representation from venues across the country, and the finalists and winners truly reflect the innovation, resilience and collective spirit that defines our industry in New Zealand.”
EVANZ acknowledged the support of its category and event sponsors, including Momentus Technologies, VITEC, 24/7 Software, Ticketmaster, Ticketek, Tompkins Wake, The Venue Management Association, Mystery Creek Events Centre, Montana Food and Events, and SBI Productions.
EVANZ Award Winners
EVANZ Contribution to the Venues Industry Award
Joelene Elliott
Recognised for her exceptional and enduring contribution to the venues industry, Joelene Elliott has been named the 2025 recipient of the EVANZ Contribution to the Industry Award and inducted as an Honorary Life Member of EVANZ. This prestigious honour is awarded by the EVANZ Board to an individual who has demonstrated sustained leadership and impact over their career.
Momentus Technologies Rising Star Award
Sarah Terry – Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre
Sarah Terry was recognised for her courageous approach to leadership and innovation, alongside her measurable community impact and commitment to creating inclusive, sustainable programmes within her organisation.
VITEC Team Member of the Year
Shane Cross – Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre
Shane Cross was commended for his outstanding dedication, problem-solving skills and the breadth of responsibility he demonstrates in delivering exceptional technical outcomes for clients and performers alike.
VMA Team Leader of the Year
Reece Preston – iTICKET
Reece Preston was recognised for courageous, people-centric leadership and strategic vision. Under his guidance, iTicket has achieved record performance while fostering a culture of innovation and cohesion that places people at the heart of every decision.
Ticketmaster Small Venue of the Year
Wairarapa Events Centre
Awarded for excellence in venues with capacities of 1–1000 seats, Wairarapa Events Centre stood out as a true community gem with a clear mission, innovative engagement and outstanding delivery for both residents and visitors.
24/7 Software Medium Venue of the Year
Isaac Theatre Royal
Recognised for its strategic vision and bold programming approach, Isaac Theatre Royal demonstrated leadership through innovative audience development and its commitment to expanding the role of a modern presenting venue.
Ticketek Large Venue of the Year
Go Media Stadium
For the second consecutive year, Go Media Stadium claimed top honours, praised for benchmark excellence, strategic clarity and its community-centred identity as “The People’s Stadium”, setting new standards within New Zealand’s venue landscape.
Tompkins Wake Industry Supplier of the Year
Bay Catering
Bay Catering was acknowledged for its leadership in sustainable innovation and community-focused operations, including pioneering composting initiatives and strong support for education and capability development across the sector.