Mr Sudesh Jhunjhnuwala, of Auckland, ONZM for services to the hospitality industry and philanthropy
Mr Sudesh Jhunjhnuwala founded Sudima Hotels in New Zealand, opening the first hotel in Christchurch in 2000. Under his leadership, the chain has grown to eight hotels, along with restaurants and spas, employing around 700 staff. A leader in sustainable and accessible hospitality, Sudima Hotels was the first in New Zealand to achieve the Toitū net carbon-zero certification and joined the Accessibility Tick initiative as a foundation member organisation. The company also supports local suppliers using regenerative practices. He has contributed to charities including Invictus New Zealand, NZSAS Trust, StarJam, Be.Accessible, Big Buddy, and Make-A-Wish. Through a partnership with the Ngāti Whakaue Education Endowment Trust Board, he provides hospitality scholarships for Māori students. Mr Jhunjhnuwala’s philanthropic support extends to Counties Manukau Women’s rugby with education grants and clubroom refurbishment.