Celebrating a century… and a half

Not only has Auckland resident Irene Hill just celebrated her 100^th birthday but, along with her late husband Larry, she has been a client of Gallagher broker Dennis Mahony for over five decades.

What keeps a client loyal for over 50 years? Gallagher broker Dennis Mahony believes it boils down to a very simple truth: “Always deliver on what you promise.”

“You can have the best product at the most competitive price but it still comes back to the quality and continuity of service,” explained Dennis.

Sound advice, solid service

Irene Hill, together with her late husband Larry, has held various insurance policies brokered by Dennis since 1970. Dennis recently had the pleasure of attending a milestone luncheon to celebrate Irene’s 100^th birthday.

Larry Hill was an entrepreneur with a keen business interest in boats, cars and property. Notably he developed Kennedy Point on Waiheke Island, areas of Rakino Island and had the second Datsun franchise in New Zealand.

“Larry and Irene have been with us over four name changes, initially as a client of Mahony and Associates, followed by Mahony, Trendall and Jack (MTJ), Crombie Lockwood and now Gallagher,” said Dennis.

“Before Larry passed away, he asked that I continue to look after Irene’s insurance requirements. Of course, I agreed and continue to this day to advise Irene on insurance solutions that best meet her needs. I am, and will remain, her first port of call.

“A couple of years ago Irene lodged a claim after a burglary at her retirement village. As it involved jewellery it was a challenging claim but we got it through for her and she was very impressed with the outcome and our service.”

Dennis was honoured to be invited to Irene’s birthday celebrations and his birthday card from Gallagher was inscribed with the message ‘We’re in it for the long ride’ – a fitting reflection of an incredible 53-year client-broker relationship. It took pride of place on her sideboard, along with the card from King Charles and Queen Camilla.