On a recent trip to Martinborough for my daughter’s wedding, I made a quiet detour just outside Pahiatua.
There, a simple memorial marks the site of a camp where displaced persons and refugees from post-war Europe began their new lives in New Zealand, learning English before being placed into jobs across the country.
In 1951, my parents and extended family arrived there with little more than their suitcases.
Two years later, we settled in Christchurch, where I grew up. As my parents built a new life from the ground up, they passed on something far more valuable than possessions: a deep sense of responsibility, resilience, and pride in doing things properly.
I learned early that if something is worth doing, it’s worth doing well – giving it your full commitment, whether for family, work, or community.
Those values have shaped every chapter of my working life.
From a corporate career as a Chief Executive, to environmental advocacy recognised by the 1990 New Zealand Commemoration Medal, to years of community involvement – including raising over $155,000 for Harbour Hospice – they’ve been my constant compass.
Locally, I’ve had the privilege of serving as Chair of the Silverdale Business Association, helping lead the successful campaign to establish a Business Improvement District – laying the groundwork for growth and a stronger community connection.
Today, I continue that work through The Networking Group, supporting local businesses across Orewa, Hibiscus Coast, Silverdale and Warkworth to build genuine, trust-based relationships.
After more than 35 years in business and community service, I found myself drawn to a new path – insurance.
For a simple reason: it allows me to serve in a deeply personal way.
Through UProtectNZ Insurance Services, I work with individuals, families and business owners to provide clarity, confidence and long-term protection.
Because insurance isn’t about selling policies. It’s about providing security, dignity, and peace of mind for the people who matter most.
And for me, the work I do today is simply a continuation of the values I grew up with – shaped all those years ago by a suitcase, a fresh start, and a commitment to building something meaningful.
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Insurance should never be “set and forget”.
It’s what we do.
“Come as a client, leave as a friend.”
Theo Simeonidis
UProtectNZ Insurance Services