02/08/2026
We're incredibly excited to share that Parklands Motor Lodge has been named a finalist in the 2026 Stella Awards!
This was the very first year we've ever entered the awards. We entered just two categories... and we're absolutely thrilled to have made the finals in both!
🏆 LOVE TAUPŌ Smooth Operators – recognizing tourism and accommodation businesses that go above and beyond to make visitors feel welcome while showcasing everything that makes our district so special.
🏆 CAMEX Civil Stella Survivor – recognizing businesses that have overcome significant challenges and emerged stronger, more resilient, and ready for the future.
To make it even more special, only five businesses were selected as finalists in each category, making this a huge achievement for our team.
We're also incredibly proud to see so many Tūrangi businesses make the finals. With a much smaller business community than Taupō, seeing so many local businesses recognized is something our whole town should celebrate.
Congratulations to our fellow Tūrangi finalists:
👏 Turangi Marine Limited
👏 Tongariro Lodge
👏 The Olive Rabbit
👏 Hare & Copper Eatery
👏 Ora Studio
This year, for the first time ever, the winners will also be decided in part by a public vote!
If you've stayed with us, supported us, or simply want to see Tūrangi shine, we'd be incredibly grateful for your vote. We'd also love to see some of our fellow Tūrangi finalists take home an award. We're the small fish in a big pond, so let's show everyone what our little town is made of! ❤️
🗳️ Vote here: https://stellaawards.co.nz/stella-finalists-public-vote/
A huge thank you to our incredible team, our loyal guests, and everyone who has supported us along the way. We can't wait to celebrate with all the finalists on 11 September. Whatever the result, making the finals in both categories in our very first year is something we'll always be proud of.