Nudist retreat among finalists

Two Bay of Plenty companies are finalists in this year's Tourism Industry Awards.

Waihi Beach Top 10 Holiday Resort and Katikati Naturist Park have been announced as finalists in the accommodation sector of the awards.

They are among 34 companies and individuals in the running.

The refreshed 2010 contest has the new theme of Innovating for Success. The awards aim to recognise success through innovation in a range of areas within tourism businesses and to highlight personalities within the tourism industry who have contributed to the industry in unique ways.

Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Tim Burgess said it was exciting two local tourism operators were finalists.

Both would be deserving winners, he said.

"Waihi Beach Top Ten Holiday Park and Katikati Naturist Park are always looking for new ways improve the business and increase the quality of their visitors' experiences," Mr Burgess said.

"The two companies are tourism leaders for the Bay of Plenty and they set the bar high."

The winners of the awards will be announced at a special dinner event on October 14 in Auckland.