New Zealand family-owned transport and tourism company Tranzit Group was named Family Business of the Year 2026 and received the Legacy Family Business Award at the Family Business Excellence Awards, hosted by the Family Business Association in Hobart, Australia.
Unlike many business awards, the Family Business Excellence Awards specifically recognise the strength of multi-generational businesses and the governance, succession planning and long-term thinking required to sustain them across generations.
For Tranzit, this recognition marks a significant milestone as the business continues its centenary celebrations, recognising its’ scale built over 100 years, as well as its values, leadership and long-term stewardship that continue to shape the company today.
Renee Snelgrove, Tranzit Group Director, and Jenna Snelgrove, General Manager of Tranzit Group’s Coaching, InterCity and Tourism Division, accepted the awards on behalf of their family and of their 2800-strong team.
“While Tranzit has grown significantly, we are most proud that it has always been built on people and a pioneering spirit,” said Jenna.
From one man, one bus and one simple idea of connecting communities in 1925, Tranzit has grown into a national business with more than 3,000 vehicles and a team of 2,800 people operating across public transport, school transport, tourism, charter and event transport, and vehicles rentals.
“Just as importantly, these awards acknowledge that Tranzit’s success has always been built on people, innovation and purpose. We've stuck to our values and we’re building a legacy for the future with the fifth generation now working in the business,” said Jenna.
During the award ceremony, Jenna also acknowledged her father and Managing Director Paul Snelgrove and uncle, Transport Director Keven Snelgrove, who are currently travelling New Zealand as part of Tranzit’s Centenary Roadshow, that celebrates the people who’ve played a key part in the company’s journey.
This 22-stop Roadshow is being staged in Tranzit’s latest three-axle CRRC electric bus that has been transformed into a “mini museum” housing a colourful display of memorabilia, story boards and uniforms that trace Tranzit’s history. A selection of the 100 original oil paintings of the company’s vehicles, completed by former team member and artist Wally Trickett, are also on display.
Tranzit joined the Family Business Association in 2025, with the membership providing real value. Through the Association, the business has connected with other family enterprises, learned from shared experiences and accessed practical insights relevant to the unique challenges of balancing family, governance and long-term business success.
“It is incredibly valuable to be part of a network that understands the dynamics, responsibilities and opportunities that come with running a family business. We have found the Association to be practical, relevant and genuinely useful, and I would absolutely encourage other family businesses to engage with it,” said Renee.
Catherine Sayer, CEO of Family Business Association, said the awards highlight the exceptional leadership and contribution of family-run organisations.
“Family businesses are central to New Zealand’s economic strength and community identity. These awards honour the vision, resilience and commitment that family business leaders bring to their work every day. Their impact is significant, and deserves recognition,” said Sayer.
