Napier celebrates enterprise and entrepreneurship

Published: 8 October 2024

Bubbles, nibbles, inspiring speakers and live entertainment combine to create a gala event celebrating the contributions business has made to 150 years of Napier.

New Zealand Olympian Nigel Avery, who was NZ’s 2024 Olympic Games Team Chef de Mission, will join Vaughn Davis, founder of The Goat Farm advertising agency, as special guests at the Napier 150th Gala on Friday 1 November at Napier War Memorial Centre.

Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise is encouraging businesses to take the opportunity to celebrate, connect, and find inspiration with like-minded people at a formal, cocktail evening.

“The Napier we know and love was built by business in many ways. Determined, courageous individuals who were at the helm of businesses that always punched above their weight.

“The story of Napier is interwoven with our business community. That’s 150 years of resilience, innovation and hard work despite natural disasters, depression, recession and a global pandemic!” says Mayor Wise.

“This is a time to come together and celebrate Napier enterprise,” Mayor Wise says. “We invite people to join us in honouring our entrepreneurial spirit, the incredible journey of our local businesses and the bright path ahead."

The ticketed cocktail event is 6pm to 8.30pm on Friday, 1 November at the Napier War Memorial Centre. Media personality, Belinda Innes, will MC the evening, which will feature a Q&A session with Nigel Avery, and a keynote address by Vaughn Davis.

The evening will also spotlight the next generation of talent with Napier’s Youth Enterprise Scheme (YES) finalists presenting their ‘pitch’ ahead of entering YES National competition. This initiative aims to nurture young entrepreneurs and foster a vibrant future business landscape. Local musicians Daniel and Hayley Munroe will provide entertainment throughout the evening. Tickets to the event are $80 per person through Eventfinda.

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