News

Howden strengthens New Zealand footprint through strategic acquisition of Omni

Published

Read time

Auckland, New Zealand, 14 October 2025: Howden, the global insurance intermediary group, today announces the acquisition of Omni Insurance Brokers Ltd, a prominent general insurance broker headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand. 

Established in 2006 under the leadership of its founders Clinton Alcock and Matthew Thorburn, Omni offers commercial and domestic insurance to 1,800 clients across Auckland and Central North Island. Alcock and Thorburn are staying on to continue to build the business and provide outstanding service to their existing clients.

The acquisition supports Howden’s strategy to build a leading brokerage across the Pacific, enhancing its reach in Auckland and expanding into the central North Island via Omni’s Taupo office.

Omni also complements Howden’s combined broking business in New Zealand, now comprising Howden Broking NZ, Bridges Insurance, Sherpa, Howden Commercial Affinity (formerly Apex Group) and Howden Corporate (formerly Wallace McLean).

Matt Bacon, CEO, Howden Pacific commented: “We are delighted Omni has chosen to partner with Howden. Omni’s people-first, tailored approach to risk aligns seamlessly with Howden’s commitment to specialist expertise and client-centric solutions – making them a natural fit for delivering truly comprehensive insurance. Together, we’ll deliver global solutions with local expertise, creating a powerful force in the New Zealand market.” 

Clinton Alcock and Matthew Thorburn, both Directors at Omni said: “The decision to join Howden was simple because of shared values and cultural alignment. Howden has rapidly established an exceptionally high-growth platform throughout NZ. It is committed to delivering outstanding client service, building long-term relationships and providing practical solutions. While this partnership with Howden will greatly expand our geography, leverage, service offerings and trading markets, it’s also about aligning with an organisation that: puts people first, which resonates so strongly with our whole team.