The HTL Group - Blog #Business Insurance

The Cyber attack that happened closer to home than expected

Wed, 13 May 2026 10:17:20 +1200

The Cyber attack that happened closer to home than expected

For many business owners, cyber attacks still feel like something that happens to “big companies” or organisations overseas.

The reality is very different.

Cyber breaches are becoming increasingly common across New Zealand, affecting businesses of all sizes - from professional services firms and tradies through to large corporates. And often, it starts with something as simple as a compromised email account.

Recently, a local business known to our team experienced this firsthand. Despite having strong IT systems and working closely with a professional IT provider, an employee’s work email account was hacked by a third party.

What happened next unfolded incredibly quickly.

Hundreds of emails sent within minutes

Initially, the hackers tested the compromised account by sending a small number of fraudulent emails to business contacts. These emails appeared legitimate and included invoice-style payment requests designed to trick recipients into transferring money.

As concerned contacts began replying to query the unusual emails, the business immediately engaged their IT provider to investigate. While remotely monitoring the account live, they watched in real time as hundreds of emails were rapidly created, sent, deleted, and removed from deleted folders. All within minutes.

Had the issue not been identified quickly, the consequences could have been significant.

Clients could have unknowingly transferred substantial sums of money to fraudulent bank accounts, and the breach may not have been discovered until much later.

The hidden impact of a cyber breach

While financial loss is often the first thing people associate with cyber attacks, the wider disruption to the business was significant.

The response process involved:

Contacting clients and business contacts immediately
Working through compliance and reporting obligations
Lodging the incident with the Privacy Commission
Resetting passwords and strengthening security settings
Upgrading email protections and systems
Managing the stress and operational disruption across the business

Even though the breach was identified quickly and no financial losses occurred, a considerable amount of time and resource went into managing the situation.

And importantly, this was a business that already had strong IT support and security measures in place.

Why Cyber Insurance matters

One of the key takeaways from the experience was the reassurance that came from having cyber insurance in place.

While many people think cyber insurance is simply about covering financial losses, it often provides access to specialist support teams who guide businesses through the response process during a highly stressful time.

In this case, the cyber insurer worked alongside the business and IT provider to help manage the incident, provide guidance on next steps, and support the business through the compliance and response process.

That expert support proved invaluable.

It’s not just big Businesses at risk

Cyber attacks are no longer isolated to major corporations.

Across New Zealand, businesses of all sizes are being targeted, including small local firms. In some cases, hacked email accounts have been used to send fake invoices requesting large payments from unsuspecting clients.

The methods are becoming more sophisticated, and unfortunately, even careful businesses with strong systems can still be vulnerable.

Is your business prepared?

If your business relies on:

Email communication
Online systems
Client information
Digital payments or invoicing

…then cyber risk is something worth reviewing.

Cyber insurance policies can vary significantly depending on the level of protection and support provided, and having the right cover in place can make a major difference if an incident occurs.

At The HTL Group we work with businesses to help identify the right level of cyber protection for their needs - providing support before, during, and after a claim.

Protect your business today

Cyber threats are no longer a question of “if” but “when.” Businesses of all sizes need to take proactive steps to protect their data, customers, and bottom line.

At The HTL Group, we specialise in helping businesses secure the right Cyber Liability Insurance to safeguard their operations, reputation, and financial health.

Get in touch with HTL Group today to find out how we can help protect your business from cyber threats before it’s too late.

HTL Group expands into Cromwell to support growing Central Otago community

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:56:55 +1200

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 support, 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.

Book your free Insurance or Mortgage review today!

Top trends in employee benefits for 2025

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 14:44:30 +1200

Smart strategies to support your people and strengthen your business

In today’s competitive job market, offering a salary alone isn’t always enough. Businesses looking to attract and retain great staff are turning to employee benefits that go beyond the basics, and the good news is, they’re more accessible than ever.

Here at The HTL Group, we work with business owners and HR teams across Aotearoa to tailor affordable benefit packages that make a real difference to employees and to business outcomes. Here are five key trends we’re seeing in 2025:

1. Affordable life and trauma cover for employees

One of the simplest and most powerful ways to support your team is to offer group life and trauma insurance. These policies are far more cost-effective than most businesses realise and they show your staff (and their families) that their wellbeing matters.

We’ve seen first-hand how implementing these kinds of benefits can improve staff loyalty, reduce turnover, and build a stronger sense of care within the workplace.

2. Employee retention through values-led benefits

Beyond pay and perks, employees are drawn to workplaces that align with their values. A tailored benefits package is an excellent way for businesses to walk the talk, showing they’re committed to looking after their people, not just productivity.

From income protection plans to voluntary health schemes, you can design a package that meets the real needs of your team, without overcommitting the business.

3. Navigating KiwiSaver changes with confidence

Recent KiwiSaver changes will impact how employers approach superannuation:

As of 1 July 2025, government contributions have been halved, and some high-income earners are no longer eligible.
From 1 April 2026, both employer and employee default contributions will increase to 3.5% – and again to 4% in 2028.
16 and 17-year-olds will soon qualify for employer contributions.

The HTL Group can help you understand what this means for your business and explore more flexible options to support your staff’s financial future. We take the time to get it right, so you’re compliant, informed, and making the best use of your benefits budget.

4. Mid-year is the smart time to review

With the financial year-end behind you and summer still a way off, now is an ideal time to review your employee benefit offering. You’re not under pressure, and you have time to make smart, considered changes that set your business up for the year ahead.

We don’t believe in rushed decisions, that’s why we encourage our clients to use this mid-year window to take stock and explore what’s possible.

5. One partner for all your business insurance needs

As a true insurance brokerage, The HTL Group goes to the full market on your behalf, meaning you get quality, affordable, fit-for-purpose cover for your business, not just what one provider is selling.

We also support your team beyond the workplace, with access to personal insurance options (all listed here: https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/insurance) all backed by trusted local advisers.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re looking to retain great people, respond to upcoming KiwiSaver changes, or simply want better business cover, The HTL Group is here to help.

Let’s meet! One of our advisers will guide you through your options and do all the work to find the right solution for your business.

Contact us today to organise a personal meeting with an HTL adviser.

Is your business at risk? why Cyber Insurance is essential in 2025

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 14:59:30 +1300

Cyber threats are no longer a distant risk - they are happening right now, affecting businesses of all sizes. Whether you run a small business, a professional services firm, or a large enterprise, cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and the financial impact of an attack is growing.

In New Zealand, law firms and other professional organisations who hold client data are experiencing cyber threats every other day, highlighting the urgent need for businesses to strengthen their digital defenses. Without proper protection, a single cyber incident could lead to crippling financial losses, reputational damage, and even legal action.

The cyber threat landscape: what’s changing?

Recent data from the Verizon 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report paints a stark picture:

68% of all breaches involve human error such as clicking on a link which contains a cyber threat, stolen credentials, or social engineering. Hackers manipulate employees through phishing emails and fake communications to gain access to systems.
Ransomware and extortion attacks account for 32% of breaches. Attackers encrypt business data and demand payment to unlock it.
The financial impact of a cyber breach is at an all-time high. The average global cost of a data breach is now $4.45 million - a 15% increase over the past three years. In NZ, the average cyber claim cost is now well over $100,000.
Hackers are moving faster than ever. Once inside a system, they can compromise an entire network in as little as 48 minutes - or even just 51 seconds in the fastest recorded case.
Many cyber-criminal organisations have moved to different countries where ransom payments are not prohibited due to sanctions - since Covid, this has surpassed drugs as their main money earner.

No business is immune, and cybercriminals are constantly refining their tactics to exploit vulnerabilities. Sole traders and SMEs are commonly victimised because the necessary protection is often not in place.

What is Cyber Liability Insurance, and why do you need it?

Cyber Liability Insurance protects businesses against financial and operational losses caused by cyberattacks. It covers:

Data breach response – forensic investigations, customer notifications, and credit monitoring.
Legal expenses – regulatory fines, lawsuits, and compliance costs.
Business interruption – lost income due to cyber incidents disrupting operations.
Cyber extortion (ransomware protection) – costs of responding to ransom demands and working with cybersecurity specialists.
Ongoing monitoring after a cyber event to ensure none of the stolen customer data ends up on the dark web.

Who needs Cyber Insurance?

If your business uses digital systems or stores customer data, cyber insurance is essential. This includes:

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) who are often targeted due to weaker security.
Professional service firms (lawyers, accountants, medical practices, consultants) managing confidential client data.
E-commerce businesses handling online payments.
Healthcare providers storing sensitive patient records.
Any business that relies on digital infrastructure such as cloud storage or online software programmes for daily operations.

Why Cyber Insurance is more important than ever

AI-driven cyberattacks are increasing. Hackers are using AI-generated deepfakes, AI phishing, and AI vishing (voice phishing) to manipulate employees.
Ransomware is evolving. Cybercriminals are constantly developing new, more aggressive attack methods.
Supply chain vulnerabilities are a growing concern. Many businesses are compromised through weaknesses in third-party suppliers or software.
Cybersecurity requirements are becoming stricter. Insurers and regulators expect businesses to have strong cybersecurity measures in place before offering coverage.

The cost of not taking action

Many businesses assume that cyber risks are covered under standard insurance policies, but this is often not the case. Without cyber insurance, a single attack could leave a company facing:

Massive financial losses – legal fees, forensic investigations, and operational downtime can quickly add up.
Reputational damage – a data breach can erode customer trust overnight.
Legal and regulatory consequences – non-compliance with data protection laws can lead to severe penalties. We are starting to see Director & Officer claims for businesses who have not implemented adequate IT services and protection

Protect your business today

Cyber threats are no longer a question of “if” but “when.” Businesses of all sizes need to take proactive steps to protect their data, customers, and bottom line.

At The HTL Group, we specialise in helping businesses secure the right Cyber Liability Insurance to safeguard their operations, reputation, and financial health.

Get in touch with HTL Group today to find out how we can help protect your business from cyber threats before it’s too late.

5 Reasons Every New Business Needs Comprehensive Insurance in 2025

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 15:07:00 +1300

Starting a new business is exciting, but it also comes with risks. When something goes wrong, it can be overwhelming to figure out what steps to take, especially when you're navigating it alone. Whether it’s a legal dispute, property damage, or an unexpected business interruption, the right insurance can make all the difference. But with so many different types of policies available, how do you know what your business truly needs?

At The HTL Group, we’re here to make sure you have the right coverage, explain your options clearly, and support you when you need it most. Here are five reasons why comprehensive insurance is essential for every new business in 2025.

1. Safeguard against financial loss

An unexpected event, whether it’s an accident, theft, or natural disaster, can quickly derail your business. If you have business assets under finance, do you know your insurance obligations? What happens if your income stops but you still have staff wages to pay? Having the right cover ensures that financial setbacks don’t put your business at risk.

2. Protect your business from liability risks

Even the most careful businesses can face liability claims. From damaging a customer’s property to an error in professional advice, liability risks are everywhere. Do you need public liability, professional indemnity, or a combination of both? Understanding your liability exposure, and having the right cover, ensures that legal fees, reparations, and settlements don’t fall squarely on your shoulders.

3. Cybersecurity threats are on the rise

New businesses are increasingly becoming targets for cyber threats. Viruses, malware, and data breaches can not only compromise your own systems but also expose sensitive client information, potentially leading to Privacy Act violations. With cybercrime becoming more sophisticated, cyber insurance helps cover the financial impact of a data breach and assists in getting your systems back up and running.

4. Ensure business continuity and peace of mind

Could your business survive if your work van was in an accident and took six weeks to repair? What about if your plant, tools, or equipment were damaged beyond repair - are they covered for full replacement? Comprehensive cover including business interruption ensures that if an insured event disrupts your operations, you have the financial support to keep things moving.

5. It’s more affordable than you think

Insurance premiums have been on the rise, and this trend is unlikely to change. However, there are ways to manage costs and limit the impact on your cash flow. By structuring a policy that suits your business activities and risk level, you can secure comprehensive protection without unnecessary expense.

Why Choose HTL Group?

Understanding insurance isn’t your job - it’s ours. We’re here to:

Explain the difference between policies so you can make informed decisions.
Assess your specific needs and ensure you carry the correct endorsements and extensions
Support you in developing a business continuity plan that integrates with your insurance.
Advocate on your behalf when lodging a claim, liaising with insurers, assessors and legal teams.

Your business is your livelihood - make sure it’s protected. If you’re unsure whether your current insurance meets your needs, get in touch with HTL Group today for expert guidance and a tailored insurance solution.