Amidst Auckland’s bustling cityscape, the Forsyth Barr Tower stands tall. It’s more than just a skyscraper. It’s a symbol of resilience, a testament to human connection, and a story waiting to be told. The Forsyth Barr Tower isn’t just a landmark; it’s a key player in the city’s financial heartbeat, home to one of New Zealand’s largest independently owned investment houses, Forsyth Barr. The firm’s history spans over six decades. They’ve been helping New Zealanders manage and grow their wealth, building their success on a foundation of sound, impartial advice.
The tower itself, located at 55-65 Shortland Street, rises 18 levels, a prominent feature of Auckland’s skyline. While its sleek exterior speaks of modern finance, the story of Forsyth Barr reveals a deep commitment to long-term relationships with clients. They offer a diverse range of services, responding to the evolving financial needs of individuals throughout their lives. From a first sharemarket transaction to substantial investments, the firm aims to help clients achieve their financial goals.
But the story of Forsyth Barr Tower goes beyond its day-to-day operations. It’s a story of resilience, etched in the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquake. In February 2011, eleven Forsyth Barr team members found themselves trapped in their temporary 12th-floor offices after the stairs collapsed. The head office in Dunedin maintained communication with them through VOIP, providing updates and reassurance until their dramatic rescue by crane. Four other staff members were initially missing, but thankfully, everyone was located within hours thanks to a combination of text messages, appointment checks, and the strong network of connections within the office.
Despite the chaos and devastation, Forsyth Barr’s robust IT infrastructure, with data securely stored on servers in Dunedin and a recovery site in Auckland, ensured that no data was lost. Upon finally gaining access to the damaged premises, the priority was retrieving client and personal files, a testament to the firm’s values. Remarkably, business operations resumed swiftly. Two temporary offices were set up in staff members’ homes, complete with expanded broadband and thin client devices. This quick thinking allowed the Christchurch team to continue serving clients, embodying the company’s commitment. And with characteristic decisiveness, new permanent premises were secured within months.
The Forsyth Barr Tower story reminds us that success in the financial world isn’t just about numbers. It’s about people, their resilience, their interconnectedness, and their dedication. As you gaze up at this Auckland landmark, remember it represents more than just steel and glass. It stands for the enduring spirit of a company, its people, and its commitment to navigating challenges and serving its clients, come what may.