Fidelity Life has announced the winners of its 2025 Adviser Awards, which the company says recognise outstanding contributions to the life insurance profession in New Zealand.
The awards were presented as part of the company’s flagship adviser event, Engage on Tour 25, which took place this week at multiple cinema locations nationwide.
The award winners were:
- Cary Veenhof Award – Travis Hamilton: The insurer says Hamilton, Chair of MDRT New Zealand, receives this award for his leadership, integrity, and global advocacy for Kiwi advisers. Hamilton’s “…client-first ethos, mentorship, and commitment to excellence exemplify the values of the late Cary Veenhof, a beloved Fidelity Life Business Manager whose legacy continues to inspire the industry.”
- Advice Professional of the Future – Cory Bennett: Fidelity Life says Bennett is recognised for his innovative approach to financial advice and his leadership in shaping the future of the industry. “Founder of Float Insurances and The Life Collective, [he] is pioneering the use of automation and AI, while fostering community and mentoring emerging advisers.”
- Team of the Year – Centastone: Led by Johny Winstone, Centastone (formerly Winstone Partners) has “…built a collaborative, client-focused business with robust systems and a strong culture of pride and connection. Their holistic approach and industry engagement set a benchmark for excellence in team-based advice delivery,” Fidelity notes.
- Lifetime Award – Chris Aynsley: The insurer says that with over 35 years of service, Aynsley is honoured “…for his enduring impact on the life insurance profession. A loyal advocate of Fidelity Life and a generous mentor, [he] has helped shape the industry through his deep expertise, integrity, and unwavering commitment to customer wellbeing.”
- Gordon Watson Award – Shane Gadsdon: Fidelity Life says that at 28, Gadsdon becomes the youngest recipient of the Gordon Watson Award. “His resilience, leadership, and dedication to clients—especially during personal challenges—reflect the spirit of service and protection that defines this honour.”
New Scholarship for 2026
Fidelity Life also announced the launch of the Ross Collett MDRT Scholarship, a $5,000 grant supporting attendance at an MDRT international conference. “This initiative honours Ross Collett’s passion for professional development and global connection and will be open to all NZ-based advisers who meet MDRT qualification criteria.”
