Leading financial institution Westpac New Zealand, which also offers its own insurance products, is sponsoring the inaugural awards celebrating excellence in inclusive workplaces

Westpac has entered into a three-year partnership as a platinum sponsor of the Rainbow Excellence Awards. The decision was led by employees that represent and advocate for the LGBTQI+ community, Westpac NZ general manager consumer banking and wealth Simon Power said.

“As one of the first organisations to receive a Rainbow Tick, we’re really proud to be the founding sponsor to help celebrate and support other organisations along their journey,” Power said.

Westpac said employers of any size are eligible to enter the awards, which feature nine categories. They’ll be asked to demonstrate how they create and foster inclusive environments for LGBTQI+ people in the workplace and their engagement in the community marked against criteria based on international best practice. Individuals can also be nominated.

“With Westpac’s invaluable support, this awards programme will have a huge impact in raising the bar and celebrating excellence in LGBTQI+ practice in New Zealand,” awards director Martin King noted.

The ceremony will take place in Auckland on May 17. Entries for the awards open on February 15.