Hi, I'm Mike, based in Christchurch. In my spare time, I love spending quality moments with my friends and family. As an Associate Adviser, I am passionate about helping people and am known for my ana...
About Us
We'd love for you to pop in and see us at Lifetime HQ, 520 Colombo Street. We've got a pretty good coffee machine to boot.
Best Parking
We have dedicated client carparks in the carpark building off Dundas Street. Drive up the DMC House ramp, then take the first left on level one, and there are a row of four client car parks just to the left, each marked with a small "Lifetime Client Parking" sign. Once parked, take walk back across the ramp and take the stairs down to Dundas Street, and walk left around the corner onto Colombo Street for the Lifetime main entrance.
Contact Details
Christchurch
Get In Touch- Phone:
- 03 372 1900
- Physical Address:
-
520 Colombo St, Christchurch, 8011
- Postal Address:
-
PO Box 25130, Christchurch, 8140
Our Team
Cushlia Young
Adviser Support / Insurance Coordinator
Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage
Born in Invercargill and raised in Canterbury, my journey has taken me far and wide. A fervent traveller, I embarked on a two-year adventure living in England and exploring the globe. When I'm not globe-trotting, I find solace in baking, hiking, and immersing myself in the great outdoors. In my spare time, I also run my own massage therapy business.
With over a decade of invaluable administrative expertise spanning various industries, I became a part of the Lifetime team in 2015, initially serving as an adviser support/receptionist. My journey within the company has evolved, and I now proudly hold the position of Insurance Coordinator. Throughout my career, I've developed an unwavering commitment to ensuring seamless operations for our clients behind the scenes. My genuine passion for helping people shines through in my dedication to facilitating positive outcomes for clients, particularly through the intricacies of claims and inquiries. Having honed my administrative skills for over 10+ years, I am committed to making a meaningful impact and contributing to the success of our clients and our organisation.
Lisa Direen
Adviser Development Manager
Hi I'm Lisa. I was born and bred in North Otago but I've lived in Canterbury for over 20 years. Despite being away for a long time, I consider Otago to be my "home" and I'm still a faithful Highlanders supporter. I have a passion for travel and I enjoy exploring new places and having adventures both here in NZ and overseas. I grew up on a farm and started my learning and development career as a trainer of rural banking Advisers a long time ago. Since then I've developed learning and development programs in many organisations and industries as diverse as rural servicing, communications and technology. I'm passionate about helping people be the best they can be. I love seeing people grow and succeed in achieving their goals at work. As Adviser Development Manager, I am looking forward to shaping the Trainee Adviser journey and assisting existing Advisers with their continued learning through ongoing professional development.
Barbara Oto
Adviser Support - Blue Channel
Talofa! My name is Barbara, and I joined Lifetime in March 2025 as an Adviser Support in the Blue Channel, and I am excited to provide essential assistance to ensure smooth operations and great client services. Prior to joining the Lifetime team, I was a Claims Advisor for NHC (previously known as EQC) and have held multiple different roles within Earthquake Commission. Beyond my professional role, I am a dedicated mum who values family time and cherish those moments spent together - and any opportunity to take a road trip exploring what our beautiful country offers is always welcome.
Sarah Fawcett
General Manager - Finance
CA, BCom
I am a qualified chartered accountant with a wealth of experience over several Senior Finance roles. My experience spans a wide range of industries including Tourism, Education, Government, Energy and City Infrastructure.
I like to bring a focus on providing effective, fit for purpose reporting and solutions, and experience working with rapidly growing businesses.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time outdoors; either mountain biking in summer or skiing during winter.
Georgia Stent
Adviser Support (F&G)
Hi, I'm Georgia. Born in Christchurch and raised in a small town called Port Levy in the beautiful Banks Peninsula. I entered the insurance industry in 2021 and previous to that my background was administration and customer service. In my spare time, I am a mum of a very busy toddler.
I have a real passion for insurance and enjoy learning more about the industry. As a mum, I understand the importance of balancing professional and personal responsibilities, that is why I strive to provide clients with the best possible experience.
Peter Cave
Managing Director
CFP
I started my career in Engineering in England in the 1980’s, then decided to travel to NZ for my OE where I found my passion was with investing and helping people understand finances rather than Engineering. After joining the Financial Services Industry, it became obvious to me that the NZ market required people to change their way of doing business, a journey of observation that led to the current delivery of advice with Lifetime Group. People want Advice for Life, they don’t need to have people deliver them products. I am proud to say I am leading our team of Advisers at Lifetime along the new regulatory path and know that all of our clients will receive top quality advice from our team that reflects their own personal financial journey. When not at work I enjoy some quiet time to gather my thoughts, changing from my work suit to my work boots to spend time in the garden.
Brooklyn Waerea
Client Care Centre Administrator
I'm Brooklyn and I joined the Lifetime team in October 2024. Before moving to Christchurch in 2017 I was living in Hawkes Bay. I have been in the customer service industry for over 10 years now, during some of those years I owned my own Beauty Therapy Business on the side. I joined Lifetime to expand my customer service skills and gain more knowledge in the financial world. When I'm not at work I like to be at home with my dog, relaxing watching a movie, or reading a book.
Sharon Glover
Senior Leadership - PA
I'm Christchurch born and bred and married to an ex-Southlander (don't hold that against me!), with two very energetic sporty boys that lovingly demand my time outside work, which I love! I started in the Insurance Industry in 1989 (I know, I don't look old enough!), and have worked with the Lifetime team since 2005. As the Senior Leadership Team PA - I'm the one who helps everything tick and run smoothly behind the scenes. No two days are the same but I love what I do, and we have a great team of people throughout the country. Making other people's lives easier is a real buzz, even if it's something small to assist. Being organised is the key to making my own life easier, always thinking ahead!
Sue Moore
Receptionist
I'm one of the Lifetime receptionists. I love to keep the office running smoothly and am the go to person for many of the behind the scene necessities. You could call me camp Mother!! After working for Lifetime since 2008, I can honestly say my first passion is you, our client. I love to make you feel welcome and valued. You can always rely on me to greet you with a smile and offer you an awesome cup of coffee (or drink of your choice).
Ryan Cooke
IT Manager
Originally from North Yorkshire in the UK, I have been in New Zealand since 2019 and I'm now on my path to staying here long term. Outside of work I am usually at the gym or developing an app to help people study for their Private Pilots License. I am passionate about helping people out and solving challenges. I believe technology can make everyone's lives easier and love to help people find new and easy ways to do old tasks.
Donna Edwards
Adviser Support
I'm an adviser support for the Lifetime team here in Christchurch and have been since 2012. I started as a casual staff member before moving into my current permanent role.
I strive to do the best I can to ensure our clients are cared for in a timely manner and with the most efficient service possible. I live locally in the Somerfield area with my husband, 2 sons and daughter. In our down time, we love to get outdoors for some serious adventures.
James Mitchell
Data Analyst
BCom
Hi, I'm James! I was born and raised in Christchurch. In my eyes, there are few cities in the world that offer such a great feeling of community and togetherness. This; alongside its beautiful landscape, will always make Christchurch my home. I am passionate about creating novel experiences, trying new things and meeting new people. It allows me to bring interesting ideas from diverse backgrounds which really fuels creativity when solving problems. Finding elegant and effective solutions for people and working in such a fun team are the things I like most about working for Lifetime!
Amy Byrne
Senior Finance Administrator
Having returned to New Zealand from working in Ireland, I joined the Lifetime team in 2017. In my role as a senior finance administrator within the commissions team, I bring over 5 years experience in the insurance and mortgage space.
In my spare time I enjoy trying out the new restaurants and eateries popping up around the city.
Kristy Crates
Adviser Support
Hi there, I'm Kristy. I have joined the Lifetime team as an adviser support and am loving the challenge of learning everything there is to know about the industry. I have three daughters that I am forever grateful for, outside of work I am usually with one or all of them either at the beach or climbing a hill somewhere. My three golden rules are; kindness is free - give it in abundance, don't stress over things that are out of your control and be grateful, always.
Steve Hynes
Regional Manager - South
PGCertEM
I'm originally from Dunedin and my wife Ange is from the West Coast, we I have lived in Christchurch since 2018 and love how the city has transformed. While I'll always be loyal to my hometown, I feel very at home in Christchurch and really enjoy the lifestyle on offer. We love to travel overseas to the Pacific Islands, Australia or further afield time and budget permitting! We enjoy eating out at the many fantastic restaurants and cafes around Canterbury and we enjoy the outdoors walking or working around our property. The majority of my career has been in Financial Services Industry working in the Banking, Insurance and Investment Sectors in New Zealand and Australia. My experience in the industry is broad and covers Rural, Commercial and Property Finance as well as Personal Insurance and Financial Planning. I believe that financial advice is critical to helping people achieve their goals but getting the right advice is key!
Laura Hyland
People & Capability Coordinator
BA - Media & Communications/English. Dip Contemporary Photography
I joined the Lifetime team in 2020, starting in the call centre as a Client Care Administrator before progressing into Adviser Support. From there, I gained experience across different areas of the business, leading to my current role in People & Capability, where I focus on recruitment and supporting the growth and development of our people. I love bringing new talent into Lifetime and celebrating their successes along the way.
My Media and Communications degree from Canterbury University taught me the importance of effective communication, relationship-building, and understanding different perspectives—skills I use daily to connect with people and support their professional growth. I strive to keep learning and take pride in contributing to a supportive and engaging work environment.
Outside of work, I love playing netball, spending time outdoors, and making memories with my husband, our two sons, our daughter, and our dog, Berkeley.
Julie Forbes
General Manager – People and Capability
DipGrad Psyc, BA Applied Science, Dip. Bus Mgmt.
I joined the Lifetime team in 2017 as the newly created Training and Development Manager. I have worked across a broad spectrum of markets in Human Resources; from Social Services, Hospitality, Mining and Fast Moving Consumer Goods. I am a proud scarfie Otago University graduate with a DipGrad in Psychology, Bachelor of Applied Science and Diploma in Business Management. I enjoy taking a positive approach to growing people to reach their full potential, and have a very enthusiastic manner of working with all people across the business. Outside of work I enjoy sports and hobbies with my two daughters and Labrador.
Alison Isherwood
Business Improvement Manager
PRINCE2 Agile® Practitioner Certificate in Agile Project Management
Having worked in both business operations and technology since 2002 when I moved to New Zealand, I have had a varied career in a number of industries including real estate, economic development, supply chain and logistics. The common theme in all positions has been supporting people at work to do what they do best, and making it as easy as possible through technology. I enjoy getting to understand what makes people tick and contributing to building strong and positive teams. My number one team is my family- with two children, three cats and a dog.
Georgia Cuthill
Adviser Support (F&G)
My name is Georgia. I was born in Timaru but raised in Christchurch. I joined Lifetime in January 2025. I began my career in the insurance industry in 2021 Prior to entering the insurance industry, I held various roles, including caregiving and customer service positions. During my free time, I cherish moments with my Greyhound and indulge in baking. I'm passionate about making a positive difference in people's lives and I know how much insurance can impact people's lives, and I enjoy being a part of that.
Kaye Stuart
Adviser Support
I was born in Hokitika (a true West Coaster) which will always be my hometown. I have lived in Christchurch this time around for 24 years. I come from a banking background with BNZ as a support for mobile mortgage managers and customer service from 2001.
I joined Lifetime in February 2018 as an adviser support and have loved every minute of it. Supporting 2 advisers (and sometimes 3) with risk and investments is very challenging, however I am up to the challenge and thrive on being busy.
Outside of work, I am busy exercising myself and our 3yr old border collie dog. I enjoy catching up with friends and visiting Hokitika as much as I can.
Robyn Thomas
Adviser Support
I grew up in the small town of Springston, just outside of Christchurch. In 1989 I moved to Sydney, Australia where I lived for 35 years. In October 2024, I returned home to Christchurch and have settled in Lincoln. I entered the financial services industry in 1999 and have held various roles in several financial advice firms in Sydney since then. I spent many of those years working as a Financial Adviser, however in more recent times I have found a niche in adviser support roles. I am excited to have joined the Lifetime Team in January 2025 as an adviser support and have a genuine desire to provide high quality administration support to our advisers so they in turn can spend more time advising you, our valuable client. Away from work, I enjoy gardening, tennis and a variety of crafts, as well as getting reacquainted with the New Zealand great outdoors after so many years spent overseas. I have a great passion for the financial advice industry, believing that every New Zealander should have access to quality affordable financial advice to help realise their dreams and aspirations and ultimately prepare for a comfortable lifestyle in retirement.
Georgia Wilkinson
Marketing Coordinator
BA in English and Media Communications
I joined the Lifetime team in April of 2021 after graduating from the University of Canterbury. During my time at Lifetime, I have grown to learn and love the ins and outs of all aspects of New Zealand's financial sector. As Lifetime's Marketing Coordinator, you will find me doing a range of tasks - from writing articles to designing flyers. I like to bring a personal touch to everything I do and strive to develop my skills with every project.
I'm a big music, movie, and motorsport fan. Outside of work, you will find me hanging out with friends, reading a good book, or creating my millionth Spotify playlist of the week.
Jessica Balloch
Group & Employee Benefits Support
Hi there, I am Jess. I am born and bred in Christchurch. I started my journey at Lifetime in September 2022. I am loving learning all about the industry. I am passionate about supporting people to help them achieve their goals. I take the time to listen to and understand client's questions, so they can feel at ease. Outside of work, I love spending time with my young, energetic nephews and family. I enjoy surfing and exploring nature. My golden rules are to treat people how you want to be treated and to never give up on your dreams.
Thomas Challies
Academy Systems and Administration Lead
I am an advocate for people in all respects with my focus and efforts being centred around understanding who they are, where they are coming from and connecting them with the right people to get to where they want to be. I have a varied background in roles from interior design, to senior leadership in retail, direct interactions within a communications company and have now landed here at Lifetime. I am delighted to be part of a team that truly embodies and delivers a people centric focus and approach.
Joanna Duthie
Academy Administrator
I’m Joanna! In 2024, I relocated to Christchurch, and I’m thrilled to be joining the Lifetime team.
I have a passion for people, and I am always eager to learn new things. I’m dedicated to continuous self-improvement and helping everyone and anyone along the way. I aim to foster positivity and build meaningful connections in every endeavor.
Outside of work, I enjoy crafting, listening to Taylor Swift, watching good movies, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand.
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Sarah Holliman
Group & Employee Benefits Support
Originally from the UK, I spent the last 20 years in Auckland and in 2023 I decided to relocate to Christchurch with my family. Having recently joined Employee Benefits, I look forward to working with an amazing team to ensure the smooth running of all areas of group workplace schemes. When not at work, I enjoy exploring new places with my daughters.
Jo Sanders
Group & Employee Benefits Coordinator
Born and raised in the North East of England I've had the pleasure of calling NZ home for the past 9 years. I'm passionate about ensuring our corporate clients have peace of mind knowing their staff are being well looked after. Whether it be adding new members onto benefits, continuing their cover when they leave or assisting them with a claim. Outside of work you'll find me running around after my daughter or working on a D.I.Y project.
Tiana Abraham
Client Care Centre Administrator
My name is Tiana, I'm new to the Lifetime team as of February 2024. I've lived in Canterbury all my life and moved into the big city in 2021. Customer service has always been a huge part of my life, from working in hospitality to retail, I know the importance of delivering fantastic service to clients and customers and I enjoy doing so. In my free time, I love to hang out with friends and family, watch a good movie or get the creative juices flowing with a bit of sketching and painting.
Tim Bakkenes
General Manager - Technology
Since entering the financial services industry in 2002, I've held a variety of roles at leading institutions including banks, financial advice firms, and global financial technology providers. Through these roles, I've gained firsthand experience and insights into how a diverse range of institutions—from large global corporations to smaller local firms—utilise technology to deliver services to their customers.
Here at Lifetime I'm driven by the transformative power of FinTech to unlock new opportunities for growth, drive innovation, streamline processes, and deliver engaging tools and experiences that empower our customers to achieve greater financial certainty.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my young family and we love exploring the many beautiful hiking trails and beaches our country has to offer. I'm also a keen motorcyclist and you'll often find me on either the tarmac or off-road trails.
Tina Evans
General Manager - Operations
BA, CFP, CLU
I am a people person, always interested in hearing people’s stories. There are so many choices to be made along life’s journey and I find it fascinating to hear the different attitudes and priorities people make. Having been an Adviser, I felt real satisfaction in helping people with their financial decisions to reach their goals.
My role now is helping Lifetime from an operational aspect. I believe that to be a great team we need to have a strong culture, a company where people enjoy working, where the team feel valued and supported in the roles they do. There are many cogs in the wheel in Lifetime and all employees play a valued role in keeping it turning.
When not at work, I love being able to make the most of exploring our great country and feel at my happiest out on some of the great tramping tracks across the country. I just hope my knees keep up with my enthusiasm to explore some of the more challenging tracks, especially as my grandchildren grow up and join me.
Lucy Ridley Green
Practice Lead
Originally from the UK, I joined Lifetime in 2016 having spent some time living in Canada. I’ve gained experience across a range of industries, for companies of varying sizes, from Big 4 Accounting to small ski town hospitality businesses. I really enjoy working with people and building great relationships. Outside of work, I enjoy being outdoors with my two young kids and all things food!
Donna Blakely
Commisions Administrator
I have been with Lifetime for just over 4 years and work alongside a great team of people in the finance department. I have seen many changes during my time here, which keeps my job interesting and there are certainly never any dull moments! I pretty much spend my time outside of work running around after my busy children, but when I do get time to myself I enjoy going for walks and catching up with friends, also a bit of retail therapy keeps my happy!