HTL Group expands into Cromwell to support growing Central Otago community

17/04/2026 10:56 AM - By Lauren Bennet

HTL Group expands into Cromwell to support growing Central Otago community

As demand for trusted, local financial advice continues to grow across the South Island, HTL Group has officially expanded into Cromwell, establishing a dedicated presence in the heart of Central Otago.

While some members of the team bring more than 40 years’ experience, the modern HTL Group traces its origins to the mid-1990s, when a group of AMP insurance agents came together to form what has evolved into today’s business. The HTL brand, “Help Through Life”, is embodied in its infinity-inspired logo and guided by values of integrity, trust, dependability and care, reflecting a strong commitment to long-term client relationships.

A strategic move to support South Island clients

With an increasing number of clients based throughout the South Island, HTL Group recognised the need to be closer to the communities it serves.

Having a local presence allows the team to better support clients in an evolving insurance environment, one that has become more complex in recent years.

Shifts toward risk-based pricing and stricter underwriting requirements mean many individuals, farmers, and business owners are now seeking more personalised guidance when making insurance decisions.

HTL Group has experienced significant growth in response to this demand, reinforcing the importance of strong, long-term client relationships.

Local knowledge, backed by national expertise

Based at 7a Venning Crescent, Cromwell, the local team is well positioned to support clients across Central Otago and beyond.

The Cromwell team is made up of experienced advisers who understand the unique needs of the region.

Mariana Phillips (pictured left) leads the Cromwell presence, focused on building strong, long-term relationships with local clients.

Jodi Gillam-Taylor (pictured right) brings a background in life and risk underwriting, alongside hands-on experience in domestic insurance and orchard management in Roxburgh, giving her a well-rounded understanding of both lifestyle and rural clients.

Together, they provide practical, relevant advice tailored to the Central Otago community.

Importantly, while clients can work directly with the Cromwell-based team, they are also supported by the wider HTL Group network (pictured below) giving access to a larger team of specialists across insurance, investments and lending.

A full-service offering for individuals and businesses

The Cromwell office primarily focuses on general insurance, supporting:

  • Corporate and commercial clients

  • Farmers and rural operators

  • Domestic insurance needs

In addition, clients can access a full suite of services through the wider HTL network, including:

  • Life, health and risk insurance

  • KiwiSaver guidance

  • Bespoke investment advice

  • Mortgage broking support

By maintaining strong connections between offices, the Cromwell team can seamlessly connect clients with the right specialists across New Zealand.

Investing in a region on the rise

Cromwell is rapidly emerging as a key hub within Central Otago, no longer playing second to larger centres, but establishing itself as a thriving and strategically positioned community.

Located to service Otago, Southland, and beyond, Cromwell offers strong connectivity to regions such as Canterbury and Nelson/Tasman.

With this growth comes increased demand for professional services, particularly those that can support both business and personal financial decision-making.

HTL Group’s expansion reflects a long-standing commitment to working closely with clients at a grassroots level.


Local support, when it matters most

Whether you're reviewing your insurance, exploring lending options, or planning for the future, the Cromwell team is now available to support you locally, backed by the strength of a national advisory network.

Lauren Bennet