The decision to make the event more of a two-part “big night out”, adding more emphasis on informal networking and socialising while reinforcing the formal Awards presentations, has been announced by the Pride In Print Awards Committee after a detailed independent survey of industry members.
A selected survey of people who were among the estimated 800 to attend the 12th Pride In Print Awards in Rotorua, gave invaluable feedback on what would enhance the night, help the ceremony move more smoothly and make it more entertaining for participants.
As a result, the 2006 event at Sky City will feature:
• the Awards ceremony being held in a theatre
• the Awards format being kept to a tight, fast-moving presentation of about one hour
• only Gold Medal winners being called and presented on stage
• Highly Commended work being recognised by appearing on overhead screens at the commencement of each category but not being read out
• the subsequent seated dinner being held in a dining area separate from the Awards ceremony
• a true “entertainment” atmosphere to be present for the rest of the evening, with a lounge available for networking and plenty of opportunity for post-dinner partying
Awards Manager Sue Archibald says the changes closely followed the major findings of the independent survey.
“The survey revealed that there is tremendous support for the Pride In Print concept and the Awards night,” says Ms Archibald.
“Many constructive ideas came out for further improvements, particularly in making the formal part of the evening flow more smoothly.
“We have listened to these suggestions and come up with a format that will combine the formal and informal. On the one hand, the essence of having our industry leaders recognise New Zealand’s elite print jobs, in all areas of print, is retained.
“On the other, the formal ceremony will quickly unfold into an informal dinner, networking and partying atmosphere. The new Sky City Convention complex is situated in the heart of Auckland City and has a superb reputation for catering. A seated dinner and a choice of mains will be available, accompanied by New Zealand wines. There will also be plenty of opportunity to party at one of the Sky City Hotel bars for those that wish to continue into the wee hours.
“The combination of formal and informal will make this the kind of ‘big night out’ that is being sought by the industry.”
Ms Archibald says as a result of the improved format the Awards night will become more attractive for companies to bring customers, partners and guests.
“We are very fortunate to have an Awards programme the industry is passionate about. Long may it continue. I hope the new format work well for the industry and I look forward to sharing a very memorable Auckland event.”
The 2006 Pride In Print Awards will be held at Sky City Auckland on Friday June
