Wine festival organisers shortlisted at 2026 New Zealand Event Awards

Event promoters Ripe Events have been announced as finalists in two categories at the 2026 New Zealand Event Awards. This year, Ripe Events has been recognised as a finalist for the following categories and corresponding events: Best Food, Beverage or Lifestyle Event: Ripe - The Wānaka Wine & Food Festival and Sustainability Initiative of the Year: The Valley Festival. Ripe Events said that the Sustainability Initiative nomination is “particularly meaningful” as the organisation won this same award in 2025 for its work on Ripe Festival, “highlighting the company’s ongoing commitment to creating events that deliver positive environmental and social impact”. Director Nathan White said that the organisation is incredibly proud to be recognised again by the New Zealand Event Association.