When Teina Paniora first entered the insurance world, he wasn’t 'suited up' or carrying a briefcase - he’d literally just hopped off a forklift.
"In early 2014, my cousin, who was part of the Christchurch earthquake recovery team, put the feelers out on my behalf and helped me land an interview for an admin role with her at NZI," he recalls. "Looking back, I think my manager took a bit of a chance on someone with very limited office experience."
His shift from logistics to insurance was unexpected. "I felt ready for a change. I’d been offered a truck-driving job just before this opportunity came up, but after meeting people in the industry and chatting with my cousin, insurance just felt right. I trusted my gut and took a leap of faith - and in hindsight, I’m so glad I did because it set me on a path I never could’ve imagined."
A career shaped by curiosity
Teina’s insurance journey began in administration, but his curiosity and strong work ethic soon opened new doors. He transitioned into claims management, where he played a vital role in guiding customers through the aftermath of the Canterbury and Kaikōura earthquakes as part of the Disaster Recovery Unit. "In that space, we were trying to help people and communities get back on their feet, which is essentially what we're here for, right?"
From there, he moved into underwriting, gaining a deeper understanding of risk assessment. "That’s where I really grasped the fact that the work we do is not just about fixing things after they’ve gone wrong, but helping people plan for the unexpected."
Now, as Business Development Manager (Commercial Sales), Teina’s found a role that perfectly balances his passion for people and problem-solving. "It’s been an awesome mix of working with our broker partners and applying strategy to help both brokers and NZI grow,” he shares.
“Each role has given me a new perspective and taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of backing yourself when stepping into the unknown."
Some wise words
When asked about the best advice he's ever received, he shares, "My dad, Ross, always said I should remember two things: 'Don’t be like your father' and also to 'choose wisely’. That second one was about choosing a partner, which to me, was more about making wise decisions that shape your life and future."
That mindset extends into his work. "For me, building trust and sound relationships with customers is about being consistent. NZI is known as a steady ship in the market, so I try to embody that. Whether it's responding to queries quickly or showing up in person, being accessible and available makes all the difference. Plus you get way more done face-to-face than by sending ten emails."
Roots, rhythm and whānau
Born in Cromwell, Central Otago, but raised in Canterbury, Teina's roots run deep. He and his wife Latitia (Tish), are raising their two boys, Tohu (6) and Tīaho (2), as first-language te reo Māori speakers. "Growing up, dad often took us home to spend time on the marae on the East Coast. It’s such a privilege learning from our whānau about where our ancestors walked, where their battles were fought, and hearing the stories that shaped our people. It makes me realise the importance and value of knowing who you are and where you're from. That’s what I want for my boys."
It’s no surprise that his go-to travel destination is Aotearoa - specifically, his whānau marae, located just minutes before Ruatoria. “There’s really no place like it. We went there recently, and it just feels like home,” he shares. “It also reminds me that we’ve got a pretty sweet backyard here, don’t we?”
Teina's passion for his culture extends into his work. Recently, he joined IAG's Komiti Whakahaere Māori, deepening his connection with fellow Māori across the business. "I never expected insurance and te ao Māori to align, but here we are. I’ve loved contributing recently at both the TupuToa gala event and Te Matatini festival in Ngāmotu, New Plymouth.”
When he’s not immersed in insurance, Teina keeps the beat alive with his family band, One Waka. "It began as a garage project that got out of hand,” he laughs. “Dad’s on sax, my brother handles percussion and vocals, I play drums and sing, and our old neighbour ties it all together on lead vocals and guitar. We blend Aotearoa dub, roots and reggae with traditional Māori instruments and te reo Māori lyrics, influenced by the sounds of Salmonella Dub, Black Seeds and Katchafire. It’s pretty special to be part of."
For the love of it
As a recent recipient of NZI’s Jeremy Bold 2025 Scholarship Programme, Teina is excited by what lies ahead this year. "I have the opportunity to be mentored by Chris Hughes, NZI’s Executive Manager of Broker Distribution and Speciality. Having a monthly session with someone of his experience has been incredibly valuable; being able to pick his brain is a real privilege. I’m genuinely excited about the plans we’re shaping together for the project work ahead."
When asked about his proudest achievement, Teina's answer is immediate. "My whānau. I like to think I listened to dad and chose wisely because Tish is incredible. Raising our boys together and seeing them grow as fluent Māori speakers, confident in who they are as Māori, means everything to us."
As for work-life balance, Teina laughs, "If anyone's cracked the code to that, I’d love to hear it! With two young boys, Tish and I juggle everything to keep the train on the tracks. I really value NZI’s workplace flexibility. There’s a genuine willingness to support whānau and make things work. Plus, having an awesome team is such a bonus."
Whether he’s building broker relationships, mentoring future leaders or drumming alongside One Waka, Teina approaches everything with heart, humour and a deep sense of purpose. His journey is about taking chances, embracing change and always remembering where you come from.
Teina with his wife Latitia (Tish) and their two boys, Tohu (6) and Tīaho (2)
