Ric Kayne named as 2019 Kea Friend of New Zealand at WCNZ Awards

The sell-out gala dinner saw Kayne celebrated for his significant contribution to New Zealand’s people, economy and tourism sector - via his work to establish Aotearoa as a world-class golfing destination, and his ongoing partnerships with Northland iwi.

Business leader and investment specialist Ric Kayne has been named as the 2019 Kea Friend of New Zealand, at the World Class New Zealand (WCNZ) Awards held last night at SKYCITY's Auckland Convention Centre.

The sell-out gala dinner saw Kayne celebrated for his significant contribution to New Zealand's people, economy and tourism sector - via his work to establish Aotearoa as a world-class golfing destination, and his ongoing partnerships with Northland iwi.

Kayne is responsible for the development of world-class Tara Iti golf course in Mangawhai – currently ranked sixth globally outside of the US.

Via this (and other courses planned for the future) Ric has forged strong links with local iwi Ngāti Manuhiru and Te Uri o Hau, as well as the broader community - creating significant education and employment opportunities and driving tourism growth in the region.

Kea Global CEO Craig Donaldson says the WCNZ Awards recognise exceptional Kiwis and friends of New Zealand whose outstanding achievements are enhancing New Zealand's reputation on a global scale.

"Ric Kayne has contributed considerably to the growth of Auckland, Northland and New Zealand. His various initiatives, in particular, the development of the Tara Iti course have provided significant tourism, employment and investment opportunities in New Zealand. Ric has helped to define New Zealand as a worldwide tourist destination and we are delighted to recognise him as a Kea Friend of NZ," says Donaldson.

Ric Kayne says, "I'm pleased to be able to contribute, and the appreciation is truly heart-warming."

In addition to Ric, last night's ceremony also named its Supreme Award winner – internationally celebrated chef and restaurateur, Peter Gordon.

Often credited as a key pioneer of fusion food, Peter was recognised for his ongoing philanthropic efforts – specifically his creation of annual culinary events, here and in the UK, which have raised more than NZD$16million to support Leukaemia research.

Other World Class New Zealanders acknowledged on the night were Allbirds' entrepreneur Tim Brown; business leader Rachel Taulelei; scientist and entrepreneur Doctor Elizabeth Iorns; technology innovator and entrepreneur Fady Mishriki; globally recognised HR professional Kirsten Nevill-Manning; and professor and neuroscientist Christopher Shaw.

Each World Class New Zealand Award winner received a Tall Poppy statuette, designed by Weta Workshop co-founder and 2009 Supreme Award winner Sir Richard Taylor.

Established in 2003, the WCNZ Awards provide a platform that recognises inspirational, world Kiwis and friends who are making outstanding contributions to New Zealand's international reputation.