12 Businesses Make Export Awards Shortlist
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Twelve Southland businesses are in the running for this year's export awards, with the 2026 finalists announced across three categories.
Export Southland chair Jamie May said the applications showed what the region's export community is actually capable of.
"Southland businesses have never let distance limit their ambition. These finalists are creating innovative products, entering new markets and building businesses capable of competing on the world stage," May said.
"The judges were impressed by the quality of the applications and the diversity of the businesses represented. Being selected as a finalist is a significant achievement, and we are looking forward to sharing their stories and celebrating their success."
The DHL Southland Export Mentorship — aimed at businesses beginning to export or pushing into new international markets — has four finalists: Auld Distillery, Back Country Foods, Hit Kit, and Rakiura Distilling Co. The mentorship gives the winner access to DHL's export knowledge and networks. Notably, Auld Distillery appears in two categories.
The Rio Tinto | NZAS Innovation in Export Award, which recognises businesses using clever products, branding or business models to crack international markets, comes down to two finalists: Garston Hops and Good Guise.
Four businesses are in contention for the Export Southland Grant — a $10,000 fund to strengthen export capability through expansion, training, promotion or research and development. They are āhei, Auld Distillery, Backlanz, and Huntercraft.
May was clear that the awards are not just a pat on the back for individual companies.
"Every exporter creates opportunities beyond their own organisation. Their success supports local employment, strengthens supply chains, attracts investment and builds Southland's reputation internationally.
"The Export Awards give us an opportunity to recognise that contribution and to celebrate the people who are putting Southland on the world map."
Winners will be announced at the 2026 Export Gala — Southland to the World, held at Ascot Park Hotel in Invercargill on Friday September 4. The evening will include Southland produce, entertainment from El Scratcho, and the presentation of the Graham Dick Memorial Trophy, recognising an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to export in Southland.
Tickets are available through iTICKET.