Three companies have been named as finalists for the He kai kei aku ringa award for Māori Excellence in Export, in the 2015 New Zealand International Business Awards.

The award is supported by Te Puni Kōkiri, The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), and The Treasury.

The finalists are Sealord and Kono, both based in Nelson, and Taupō-based Miraka. The award recognises Māori business contribution to the New Zealand export economy – the approach, values and tikanga that underpin and uniquely define Māori business. These three companies collectively employ over 1700 staff.

The New Zealand International Business Awards are organised by NZTE, with the support of Strategic Partner ANZ. They celebrate New Zealand business success in the world and recognise professional excellence and innovative practice. Winners will be announced at a black tie ceremony on 25 March at Sky City in Auckland.