Our report on the announcement of a new industry award for FAPs attracted much reader interest this week…
Submissions are open for the 2026 ANZIIF New Zealand Insurance Industry Awards, which includes a new category recognising the Financial Advice Provider/Authorised Body of the Year.
ANZIIF says the introduction of this new category “…reflects the growing importance of advice-led models in delivering strong customer outcomes.”
This award is open to a licensed Financial Advice Provider. “Entrants should demonstrate strong performance and outstanding customer-centric outcomes in New Zealand between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026.”
The institute says its awards showcase insurance professionals across the full breadth of the insurance ecosystem, including broking, claims, underwriting, reinsurers, risk, life and general insurance, insurtech, professional services and service providers, highlighting impact and leadership across the sector.
Two honours also celebrate distinguished individual leadership and lifetime contribution to the profession, providing a platform to demonstrate achievement and gain industry recognition for those setting the benchmark for excellence (see: 2025 Life Insurance Company of the Year Announced).
The institute is inviting submissions for:
- Broker Network of the Year
- Claims Team of the Year
- Financial Advice Provider/Authorised Body of the Year
- Insurtech Start-up of the Year
- Small-Medium Broking Company of the Year
- Large Broking Company of the Year
- General Insurance Company of the Year
- Life Insurance Company of the Year
- Professional Services Firm of the Year
- Service Provider of the Year
- Underwriting Agency of the Year
- Young Insurance Professional of the Year
The Insurance Leader of the Year and Lifetime Achievement awards are determined through a separate industry nomination and judging process, consistent with the approach used for the Australian Awards.
ANZIIF says a new automated digital platform has been introduced, making the free submission process easier for professionals to nominate themselves or their organisation.
Katrina Shanks, CEO of ANZIIF, says the awards celebrate the individuals and organisations strengthening the profession through innovation, professionalism and a deep commitment to supporting customers and communities.
“They champion the passion and progress that define our industry and recognise the achievements that build capability and inspire the next generation of insurance professionals.”
She encourages organisations and individuals across the sector to put forward a submission and share their accomplishments.
Winners will be announced at a ceremony at the new New Zealand International Convention Centre on November 10. Submissions close July 5, and finalists will be announced on September 8.
Click here for more information and to make a submission.