Top talents were recognised last night at ANZIIF’s New Zealand Insurance Industry Awards.

The Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance says this year’s program honoured outstanding contributions and reflected the breadth of expertise and innovation shaping the NZ industry.

Some of the NZ winners

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

“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.”

ANZIIF says more than 450 people attended the gala event.

Richard Russell from Gallagher received the ANZIIF lifetime achievement award, and Anika Thomasson from Sedgwick New Zealand was named young insurance professional of the year.

The other winners were:

• Broker network of the year – Insurance Advisernet
• Claims team – Fidelity Life
• Financial advice provider/authorised body – Rival Wealth
• Insurtech start-up – FreightInsure New Zealand
• Small-medium broking company – Blanket Advice
• Large broking company – Marsh New Zealand
• General insurance company – Vero Insurance
• Life insurance company – Partners Life
• Professional services firm – McLarens
• Service provider to the insurance industry – IVAA Contents Procurement
• Underwriting agency – Emergence Insurance.