Making a difference in Southern Lakes

As proud members of the communities in which we live and work, we are keen to back projects that make a difference in our regions. In Queenstown, our long-time partnership with Wakatipu High School (WHS) Foundation is continuing to pay dividends for Wakatipu High School and its students.

Queenstown resident and head of Gallagher Insurance for the Southern Lakes region, Sandy MacLeod is familiar with the challenges facing the local high school. Wakatipu High School is the only secondary school serving the Queenstown and caters for students from diverse economic backgrounds.

To help the school and the community realise their vision for a meaningful education for all students, the WHS Foundation supports and funds a wide range of school initiatives and resources. The Foundation also helps students facing financial hardship.

“One of the major things for the Foundation is to ensure that all the kids enjoy the exact same schooling experience, regardless of their home situation,” says Sandy, who is also a Foundation Trustee.

“Given Gallagher’s long history advising New Zealand schools on insurance, partnering with the WHS Foundation felt like the perfect fit.”

Oded Nathan, Wakatipu High School Principal says the school greatly appreciates the generous funding from the WHS Foundation. “The support from local businesses like Gallagher ensures that there are no financial barriers to students’ participation and engagement with WHS’ great all-round education”.

Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka

Gallagher is also active in partnering with sporting events such as Challenge Wānaka to be held in February 2025. Gallagher is naming sponsor of the triathlon series, which draws athletes from around the world to compete against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps.

It is New Zealand’s largest triathlon festival, featuring events for all ages and abilities, involving over 2,000 participants and attracting 10,000 spectators. Gallagher has supported the three-day event as a volunteer sponsor for many years.

“Our partnership with Challenge Wānaka demonstrates Gallagher’s commitment to supporting initiatives that stimulate local communities. The event showcases both the incredible athleticism and determination of its participants and fosters a sense of community and support for local businesses,” explains Sandy.

“Gallagher has witnessed first-hand how this event generates a surge of support for businesses in the area, many of whom are already our valued clients.

We are looking forward to seeing the event return to the township in 2025 and are proud to align ourselves with Challenge Wānaka and its mission to bring people together, promote healthy lifestyles, and support the growth of our community,” says Sandy.

Gallagher grows in Southern Lakes

Since establishing the Gallagher Southern Lakes branch in Queenstown in January 2021, Gallagher has opened two additional offices in Wanaka and Alexandra, employing 15 people in the region. Gallagher also supports the Southern Lakes community through our sponsorship of the New Zealand Open, the Queenstown Trail Trust, Merino Muster and Wanaka Golf as well as community initiatives such as taking part in the Bremner Bay Beach clean-up.