Mount Maunganui tourism operators and attractions have been recognised as 2021 Travellers' Choice award winners by Tripadvisor.

The Mount Hot Pools, Hibiscus Surf School, Mount Maunganui Main Beach, Mount Maunganui Base Track, Mount Maunganui Summit Track and V8 Trike Tours, along with Tauranga's The Aviator Experience have all been recognised in this coveted achievement that celebrates businesses and attractions that consistently deliver fantastic experiences.

Formerly known as the Certificate of Excellence, the Traveller's Choice Award acknowledges businesses that have earned great reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months. These businesses make up the top ten per cent of businesses listed on Tripadvisor.

In August 2019, the Mount Hot Pools was inducted into the Tripadvisor Hall of Fame for its continued achievement.

This is now the tenth year the hot pools have been recognised, but the last year was different to the others as the reviews and ratings have largely come for locals and domestic tourists.

Mount Hot Pools Manager Matthew Strange is ecstatic with the news, especially as the country is currently in another Alert Level 4 lockdown and the much loved facility is currently closed.

'The news is very welcomed during this tough time," says Matthew. "It acknowledges the hard work our team put in 364 days a year to create a fantastic all-round customer experience.

"It's great to be recognised for our cleanliness, presentation, and friendly-staff. We can't wait to re-open and welcome visitors back into the facility in Alert Level 2.”

V8 Trike Tours Owners Kathryn and Nigel Busbridge said they were 'thrilled” to win the award which is their fourth Tripadvisor award in five years of operation.

'This award comes through determination, dedication and hard work from the whole team at V8 Trike Tours over the years”, says Nigel.

Tāpoi Te Moananui ā Toi | Tourism Bay of Plenty General Manager Oscar Nathan congratulates all the 2021 winners during what has been a testing year for tourism.

'They reflect our place DNA and its enduring appeal – from ocean and beaches to horticultural provenance.”

Chief Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor, Kanika Soni echoes Oscar's comment.

'I know the past year has been extremely challenging for tourism businesses," says Kanika.

"What has impressed me is how businesses adapted to these challenges, implementing new cleanliness measures, adding social distancing guidelines, and utilising technology to prioritise guest safety.

"The Travellers' Choice Awards highlight the places that are consistently excellent - delivering quality experiences time and time again even while navigating changing customer expectations and new ways of working.”

Also in the Bay of Plenty Ōhope Beach, Julians Berry Farm & Café, and the Awakeri Rail Adventures also received 2021 Travellers' Choice awards this year.