New Zealand’s Rothbury Insurance Brokers has bought a stake in Wilkinson Insurance Brokers.

Wilkinson GM Conrad Shanly, one of two shareholders to remain with the business, says the tie-up will provide a platform for growth.

Rothbury MD Roger Abel says Wellington-based Wilkinson brings a book of corporate and larger commercial business that will strengthen his company’s nationwide capacity.

He says the brokerage has been “focusing on a number of growth opportunities, including expanding our corporate capability”.

Rothbury became the founding New Zealand member of Steadfast last year when it sold a 30% stake to the Australian broker network.

Wilkinson will become Rothbury’s 15th branch, and the addition of its 18 staff will take Rothbury’s headcount to 220.