Richie Knight – Cosgroves

On the ball and accurate – Richie knows mortgages inside out. Previously a Residential Lending Specialist for major New Zealand banks, his working knowledge of complex lending strategies is an asset to the Cosgrove team. It’s this expertise, together with his professional can-do attitude that gives Cosgroves clients the edge.

Richie assists our clients to plan and achieve their financial goals through well-structured mortgage solutions. From first home buyers, to those who are refinancing, building, refixing, or topping up a mortgage; Richie helps identify ways to repay it faster, save money, and increase your asset base. Giving independent advice is definitely his strong suit, as is getting to know each client personally. He enjoys keeping in touch throughout the many life-stages of your lending needs.

Outside of work Richie’s a tireless sports fan – cycling the hills and playing cricket. He delights in the company of his little girl, family and friends; and when there’s time he likes to get stuck into the garden.

Where we’ve come from and where we’re heading

Cosgroves began in the year 2000, inspired by a Bank Manager friend who perceived Mark’s attention-to-detail and attention-to-people as a good fit for insurance. The timing was right, and with training and support from an industry mentor, Mark launched his own business in Christchurch’s CBD. Cosgrove Survival Specialists was born.

From small beginnings, the business grew progressively, not through advertising or ‘hard-sell’ but through good old-fashioned ‘word of mouth’ and hard work. Many successful referrals, together with the acquisition of a second brokering business in 2009 have led to further expansion. Today, with associate Dan McKirdy on board, and the support of three skilled administration staff, Cosgroves operates on the outskirts of Christchurch in a rural setting the team finds both relaxing and conducive to high productivity. A move initially brought about by the Canterbury earthquakes in 2011, the purpose-built offices and surrounding 11 acres are far removed from the ‘war zone’ that was once the city’s CBD. It’s from here that the Cosgroves team focusses on highly professional, individualised, and well thought out cover for their clients.

Cosgroves’ specialist focus is on business and farming. Ninety percent of the client-base are business owners; fifty percent of these are farmers. Clients are spread throughout the South Island; many coming as referrals via accountants and lawyers who rely on Cosgroves in-depth understanding of the diverse insurance needs of these clients. As an impartial consultancy firm, Cosgroves tailors an individualised plan to best protect business owners both professionally and personally.

A part of your future

Cosgroves has been over 15 years in the making. With plans for continued growth, clients will consistently receive the best possible service today, and into the future. There are many exciting years ahead, as we move forward, always with the needs of our clients at heart.