The Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF) has announced the winners of its 12th annual New Zealand Insurance Industry Awards, honouring achievements across a broad range of categories within the sector.
The awards spotlight accomplishments in general and life insurance, broking, underwriting, claims handling, professional services, and technology.
Organisations leading initiatives in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices were also recognised, alongside individuals for their contributions and leadership.
Winners were determined by a panel of industry judges who independently reviewed and scored submissions, with oversight from an external auditor.
To ensure impartiality, judges recused themselves from evaluating entries where conflicts of interest were identified.
IAG received the Excellence in ESG Change award and celebrated AMI’s recognition as General Insurance Company of the Year.
Commenting on the Excellence in ESG Change award, Louise Harvey-Wills, executive general manager for people, communications, and sustainability at IAG, said the recognition reflects the company’s progress in integrating sustainability into its business practices.
“This shows just how far we’ve come in embedding our approach in IAG’s corporate strategy, enabling us to work towards our vision of protecting the future of every Kiwi,” she said.
The insurance giant also commended John Archer, manager of technical claims, for earning a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Wayne Tippet, IAG’s executive general manager for claims, described Archer’s recognition as a reflection of his impact.
“His wealth of knowledge has such a strong influence on the industry, and his work will continue to make a positive contribution for years to come,” he said.
Asteron Life was named Life Insurance Company of the Year for the fifth time, recognised for its focus on customer needs and team development.
Grant Willis, executive general manager, highlighted the company’s efforts to simplify processes and make insurance more accessible.
“Keeping insurance accessible and affordable is a priority, especially in these times of economic strain for many, so it’s important that our customers understand and appreciate the value of personal insurance to protect their future security,” he said.
He also acknowledged the role of advisers and partners, such as the New Zealand Automobile Association, in helping connect customers with suitable products.
Professional Services Firm of the Year was awarded to McLarens New Zealand for the fourth year running.
Managing director Andrew Brooke credited the company’s success to its staff’s commitment.
“Every person, every role, and every contribution has played a vital part in securing this recognition,” he said, adding that it was a privilege to celebrate alongside other industry leaders at the event.
Mike Austin and John Archer were recognised with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their significant contributions to the industry.
Austin, who spent five decades in marine insurance, expressed gratitude for the recognition.
“This award celebrates, as much as anything, my going to work for the same job for 50 years, which was a job I thoroughly enjoyed,” he said. “So, it’s really nice to be acknowledged for something that wasn’t very hard for me to do.”
Archer, with 45 years in insurance, commented: “It is a great honour to be recognized by ANZIIF in this way.”
