New Zealand businesses that invest in employee wellbeing are reaping tangible benefits, as shown by the 2025 Southern Cross Health Insurance Wayfinder Awards.
The winners were companies that had demonstrated that prioritising employee wellbeing leads to stronger engagement, higher productivity, and long-term success.
“Each of these winners has demonstrated that what’s good for people is good for business,” said Southern Cross Health Insurance CEO Nick Astwick.
“From flexible work arrangements to strong leadership and diversity initiatives, they are showing the way forward for workplaces in Aotearoa.”
Astwick noted a growing commitment among businesses to invest in the health of their employees to boost business performance, even during economic downturns.
Among the winners, Jen Southan of ORIX received the Star Wayfarer Award. Her leadership in promoting workplace wellbeing through various initiatives has boosted employee morale and engagement.
Dominic Quin, of Foodstuffs, who won the True North Award, was recognized for his values-based leadership which had reportedly fostered a culture of mentoring, professional development, and recognition, resulting in improvements in employee satisfaction and performance.
Netsafe was awarded the Small Business Award for its 'Flexible First' policy, which includes a four-day work week. This policy has led to substantial growth in service demand and employee engagement, with a decrease in staff turnover.
Meanwhile, ORIX NZ was the winner of the Medium Business Award for its company-wide health insurance, income protection insurance, and comprehensive employee assistance program (EAP) services.
ASB took home the Large Business Award for its 'Your Benefits' program, which offers tailored health and wellbeing initiatives, catering to a diverse workforce. Initiatives like pet bereavement leave and additional personal time off are part of this approach, ensuring all employees feel supported regardless of their life stage.
“A great reminder of being intentional in having the right culture, caring about the right things that lead to success,” Astwick concluded.
According to the 2024 Healthy Futures Business report by Southern Cross, 89% of respondents value working for companies that support staff wellbeing.
