Westpac Auckland West Business Awards 2011 Gala Dinner at Trusts Stadium on Friday night honoured the local business community in style. 

Hosted by comedian Dai Henwood, nearly 700 guests were entertained by singer Taisha, the Waiariki Kapahaka group and Kelston Girls’ College hip hop dance group Sisterhood Crew, at the most prominent event of the year for the west Auckland business community.

Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development’s Event Manager Julie Stevens says the black-tie event celebrated local businesses and business people.

“The Gala Dinner is the most celebrated occasion for west Auckland’s business community and this year’s event certainly delivered to that expectation.  We had the excitement of the awards, a superb dining experience and a fantastic line up of entertainment,” says Ms Stevens.

Comedian and west Auckland local Dai Henwood entertained guests with light hearted banter throughout the evening, however stressed the importance of local business to the community.

“I think it’s important to support local businesses and celebrate those who are successful and helping to keep our community vibrant,” Mr Henwood says.