Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July. The awards are designed to celebrate the best of female entrepreneurship and business achievements, with seven categories there's an opportunity for every kind of rural enterprise. Sandra Kirby, chief executive of Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ), says the 2026 awards are extra special as they coincide with the organisation’s Centennial year. “The awards are open to all women who live and work in rural New Zealand, and we look forward to providing a platform to highlight the incredible entrepreneurial wāhine working in agriculture, horticulture, agritourism, professional services and the arts right across the country," Kirby says. “We closely follow the journeys of previous winners and are loudly cheering as they continue to excel. “Our winners have gone on to do amazing things, such as be recognised in the Deloitte Fast 50, employ multiple rural women in communities across the country and join the national movement to raise the profile of wool to name a few,” she says. NZI, which has supported the awards from the beginning, returns as the awards' principal sponsor. NZI executive manager, agencies and schemes, Christina Chellew says NZI is proud to continue the partnership with Rural Women New Zealand and celebrate the incredible contribution rural women make to their communities and the economy. “These awards shine a light on innovation, resilience and leadership, and we’re thrilled to support initiatives that empower women to grow thriving businesses in rural Aotearoa,” she says. The 2026 categories are: Emerging Enterprise - Recognises early-stage rural businesses showing exceptional promise and growth potential. Love of the Land - Honors enterprises that work harmoniously with natural resources to supply food or fiber. Creative at Heart - Celebrates rural businesses producing original art or goods using local materials. Innovation - Recognises businesses challenging norms with new and innovative market offerings. Rural Champion - Awards individuals or businesses providing exceptional support to rural communities. Health and Wellness Excellence - Acknowledges contributions promoting rural health and wellness initiatives. Experience Rural - Celebrates enterprises offering unique and authentic rural experiences to visitors. Supreme Award - Given to a category winner excelling across all judging criteria in rural enterprise. Entries are now open and don’t close until 27 March. #NZI_RURAL_WOMEN_NZ_BUSINESS_AWARDS #RURAL_WOMEN_NEW_ZEALAND #SANDRA_KIRBY