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HM Awards Nominations Close August 31 for Hilton Auckland, Fullerton Hotel Sydney Galas

Hotel and accommodation excellence across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific will be honored at two ceremonies in October and November 2026.

By VowAsia Editors27 August 20262 min read
Photo: pattyjansen / Pixabay

Final Call for Nominations

Nominations for the 2026 HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence will close on Monday, August 31, at 11:59pm. The program, presented by Sealy Posturepedic, recognizes top properties, people, and brands across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Entry is free for all categories.

The awards receive over 1,800 nominations annually, demonstrating their significance within the hospitality sector. This initiative celebrates leading figures and venues, drawing broad participation from businesses in the region. Comprehensive categories ensure diverse recognition for industry achievements.

Two Gala Events to Celebrate Excellence

The 2026 HM Awards will host two distinct gala events to honor this year's winners. The 2026 HM Awards Aotearoa-Pacific ceremony will take place on Friday, October 30, at Hilton Auckland. This marks the third year for the Aotearoa-Pacific segment of the awards.

Subsequently, the 24th annual Australasian awards gala is scheduled for Friday, November 20, at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. Both ceremonies gather industry leaders to acknowledge outstanding achievements in hospitality. Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School, fbm, and HostPlus co-host these events.

Earlybird Tickets Available

Earlybird tickets for both the Sydney and Auckland gala events are currently available for purchase. These pre-sale tickets, for individual seats or full tables, will remain on sale until September 30, or until they are sold out. Nominees for the 2026 HM Awards will be announced in October 2026, building anticipation for the upcoming award ceremonies.

The program includes various categories such as People Awards, Property Awards for Australia, Property Awards for New Zealand and South Pacific, General Awards, and Major Awards. These ensure a wide range of accomplishments are recognized.

Implications for Asia-Pacific Wedding Business

For wedding professionals and couples in the broader Asia-Pacific region, these awards provide a valuable benchmark for venue quality and service standards. Hotels recognized for their accommodation and service often become prime choices for destination weddings and significant events.

Planners and couples seeking high-caliber venues in Australia, New Zealand, or the South Pacific can consult these award lists for curated options. This recognition demonstrates a venue's commitment to excellence, a crucial factor for securing wedding bookings. Industry leaders can secure tickets before September 30 to network and identify potential partners.

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