Industry category definitions

Manufacturing, Production and Processing

This category is for businesses that are at the heart of making, growing, or producing products. Whether you're involved in agriculture, horticulture, food and beverage manufacturing, or producing goods such as clothing, construction materials, cosmetics, or healthcare products, this category recognises businesses whose core focus is on production and processing. If your business creates a physical product—whether in small batches or at scale—this is the category for you. 

Hospitality, Entertainment and Tourism

This category celebrates businesses dedicated to providing exceptional service experiences in food, beverage, entertainment, and tourism. Whether you operate a café, restaurant, bar, accommodation, event venue, or tourism-based experience, this category is for businesses that create memorable moments for customers. If your business offers hospitality, leisure, or entertainment services that enhance the local lifestyle or attract visitors to the districts, this is where you belong. 

Construction and Trades

Are you a skilled tradesperson or a business operating in the construction and infrastructure industries? This category is tailored for businesses in building, plumbing, electrical, civil construction, roading, and other trades. Whether you're a contractor, a specialist trade provider, or a business delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, this category acknowledges your contribution to the district’s growth and development. 

Retail

This category is designed for businesses that sell products directly to customers, whether through a physical store, an online platform, or a combination of both. From fashion boutiques and homewares to speciality food stores and electronics retailers, this award celebrates the diverse and vibrant retail businesses that serve the Kāpiti and Horowhenua communities. If your business is focused on delivering exceptional retail experiences, this is the category for you. 

Professional and Business Services, or Technology

This category recognises businesses that provide essential professional services or technology solutions, often in a business-to-business capacity. It includes accountants, lawyers, marketing agencies, HR consultants, IT services, software developers, and web designers. If your business offers expertise, consultancy, or technology-driven solutions that help other businesses thrive, this is your category. 

Not for Profit, Community and Public Services

This category is for organisations that serve the community, including charitable trusts, incorporated societies, and social enterprises making a positive impact. It also includes community service providers such as medical centres, schools, and organisations delivering public services. If your mission is to create meaningful change, support community well-being, or provide vital services to the public, this category is for you. 

Consumer Services

This award recognises businesses that provide direct services to consumers. If your business is centred on personal care or professional services for individuals—such as hairdressing, beauty therapy, optometry, dentistry, fitness training, or other service-based professions—this is the category to enter. If your business thrives on delivering high-quality, customer-focused services from a physical location, this is your space to shine. 

Innovation Award

This category acknowledges a business that shows outstanding innovation and a forward-thinking approach to their business!

Environmental Sustainability Award

This award recognises a business that is working with a focus and ongoing demonstration towards environmental sustainability across its business activities.

Sub-categories:

These awards are optional and can be entered in addition to your primary industry category provided you meet the category criteria. No separate entry form is required. 

New/Emerging Award

For businesses that have been operating for less than three years as of January 2025, this category recognises new businesses that are already making an impact. Judges will assess excellence across all entry sections, regardless of the industry category entered. If your business is in its early stages but already showing strong potential and success, this is your opportunity to shine. 

Small Business Award

Designed for businesses with 0-11 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees, this award celebrates the agility, innovation, and excellence of small enterprises. Regardless of your industry, this category acknowledges businesses that punch above their weight and excel in their operations, customer service, and business growth. 

Specialty Awards

All businesses that enter an industry category will automatically be considered for the following speciality awards. No separate entry is required—if your business demonstrates excellence in these areas, you will be in the running! 

Innovation Award 

This award recognises businesses that embrace fresh ideas, creative solutions, and forward-thinking approaches. Whether you’ve developed a groundbreaking product, introduced an innovative service, or implemented a unique way of doing business, your entry will automatically be considered for this award. 

Environmental Sustainability Award 

Sustainability matters and this award highlights businesses that are making a conscious effort to reduce their environmental impact. Whether through waste reduction, energy efficiency, ethical sourcing, or eco-conscious business practices, all businesses entering an industry category will be evaluated for their commitment to sustainability. 

Electra Business of the Year

The most prestigious award of the competition, this honour is reserved for the business that stands out across all categories, demonstrating excellence in every aspect of its operations. This business embodies leadership, innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainable growth. The Electra Business of the Year Award is the ultimate recognition of business excellence in 2025. 

Hall of Fame

A recipient for the Hall of Fame will be recognised in both the Kāpiti and Horowhenua regions.