This year’s Awards celebrated outstanding contributions across general insurance, life insurance, broking, claims, underwriting, insurtech, financial advice and professional services, reflecting the breadth of expertise and innovation shaping the industry.

Individual honours

The evening’s highest honours recognised two industry professionals whose contribution and leadership have had a lasting impact on the profession.

• Richard Russell, Gallagher, received the ANZIIF Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of more than six decades of service to the insurance industry and his enduring contribution to professional standards and broker education in New Zealand.
• Anika Thomasson, Sedgwick New Zealand, was named Young Insurance Professional of the Year, recognised for her technical expertise, leadership and commitment to supporting the next generation of insurance professionals.

2026 Award winners

• Broker Network of the Year – Insurance Advisernet
• Claims Team of the Year – Fidelity Life Claims Team
• Financial Advice Provider/Authorised Body of the Year – RIVAL Wealth
• Insurtech Start-Up of the Year – FreightInsure New Zealand
• Small-Medium Broking Company of the Year – Blanket Advice Limited
• Large Broking Company of the Year – Marsh New Zealand
• General Insurance Company of the Year – Vero Insurance
• Life Insurance Company of the Year – Partners Life
• Professional Services Firm of the Year – McLarens
• Service Provider to the Insurance Industry – IVAA Contents Procurement
• Underwriting Agency of the Year – Emergence Insurance
• Young Insurance Professional of the Year – Anika Thomasson, Sedgwick New Zealand
• ANZIIF Lifetime Achievement Award – Richard Russell, Gallagher

ANZIIF CEO Katrina Shanks said: “What stands out about this year’s winners is their commitment to making a genuine difference for customers when it matters most.

“Whether through innovation, advice, claims support or leadership, these individuals and organisations are helping build a more resilient future for New Zealand. Their achievements highlight the expertise, professionalism and dedication that underpin our industry.

“I congratulate all of our winners and finalists for the contribution they make to the profession and the communities they serve.”

The gala brought together more than 450 insurance professionals, senior leaders and industry partners for a spectacular evening of recognition, connection and celebration.

Hosted by acclaimed entertainer Oscar Kightley, the event combined the excitement of the awards presentations with an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared pride. Against the impressive backdrop of the NZICC, guests enjoyed an evening of entertainment, fine dining and meaningful connections, making it a memorable occasion for everyone involved.

Now in its 14th year, the ANZIIF New Zealand Insurance Industry Awards recognise the individuals and organisations raising standards, driving innovation and making a meaningful contribution to the insurance profession. The awards showcase excellence across the industry and reinforce the vital role insurance plays in supporting communities and strengthening resilience throughout New Zealand.

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