Julie McLeod, general manager Town Centre Taupō
What a night it was at the 2026 Stella A.C.E. (Awards Celebration Evening) - proudly sponsored by Livingstone Building.
By Julie McLeod, general manager Town Centre Taupō
Town Centre Taupō promised an evening to remember, and every sign, every decoration, every design element, stilt walkers, games and even the splendid feast were on theme, along with the secret Renaissance theme that guests only learned about upon arrival.
The evening kicked off with a high energy dance number from the Taupō Academy of dance.
The official welcome shared judges’ comments that every finalist in The Grand Hall that night fully deserved to be there.
Guests were told how the public vote generated more than 3000 individual entries, all with beautiful comments praising their businesses.
The evening was soon put into the talented hands of Ben Hurley, the Master of Ceremonies, who brought smiles and laughter that lasted throughout the night.
Every nugget from the crowd was woven into the evening and entertainment provided by Ben, who simply raised the MC bar in Taupō.
Of course, there was the dishing out of the awards. Category sponsors did the honours with winners, runners up and one honourable mention taking to the stage to collect trophies, certificates and more than $8000 worth of prizes.
Taupō Academy of dance
Full teams celebrated on stage, often decked out in Stella colours of black and gold, with hugs all around and some heartfelt speeches.
Adding to the entertainment, the team from Town Centre Taupō provided a Renaissance themed game requiring lucky players to don outfits and pose as various characters from that historical time.
With $1000 at Starlight Cinema to be shared by the entire table, the players turned it on with hilarious results.
Ben Hurley wrapped up the evening with a full house toast to all the participants in the 2026 Stella Awards. HUZZAH!!
