ABC recognised as NZ’s top business brokerage — again 

Four awards. One clear message: At ABC Business Sales, we believe great outcomes don’t happen by chance — they’re built through strategy, trust, and relentless focus on what’s best for the vendor.  

That’s the approach that’s been recognised at the 2025 REINZ Awards for Excellence, where ABC was honoured with four national titles — more than any other business brokerage in New Zealand:  

• Business Broking Office of the Year – Large: ABC Auckland 
• Business Broking Office of the Year – Small: ABC Tauranga 
• Individual Business Broking Salesperson of the Year: Linda Harley 
• Individual Business Broking Rising Star Salesperson of the Year: Gerard Walsh

Awards that reflect how we work — and why it matters

“What makes this recognition so powerful is that it reflects more than just deals and dollars. It shows our brokers are being recognised for how they work — not just what they achieve,” says Chris Small, Managing Director of ABC Business Sales. 

“These awards acknowledge the care, strategy, and integrity our team brings to every transaction. That’s what sets our brokers apart — acting solely for the vendor, backing our advice with market evidence, and delivering a process that’s proactive, confidential, and driven by results.”   

For business owners considering a sale, these awards offer something real: reassurance that they’re working with the best in the business. 

Rising Star: Gerard Walsh, Canterbury Broker 

Starting a new chapter in your 60s — in a new industry, no less — takes guts. But for Gerard Walsh, it’s also about purpose. Drawing on decades of business ownership and deep roots in the Canterbury business community, Gerard has brought empathy, professionalism, and integrity to every client interaction.  

In 2025, that commitment was recognised with the REINZ Individual Business Broking Rising Star Salesperson of the Year award.  

“It was a great feeling when my name was announced as the winner of the Business Broker Rising Star Award,” says Gerard.  

“I’ve learnt how important our role can be for business owners. This award represents the trust they place in us — and to be recognised for helping them through that process means a lot.”  

“When I started this venture, I knew it would be challenging. There’s never any guarantee of success. But I’ve been fortunate to work alongside an incredibly supportive team, and to be part of a culture at ABC that values doing things the right way. That makes all the difference.” 

Individual Excellence: Linda Harley, Business Broker of the Year 

When it comes to selling childcare businesses, few people in New Zealand can match Linda Harley’s depth of experience. With over $400 million in settled transactions and more than 18 years as a sector specialist, she’s built a reputation for delivering outstanding results through structure, discretion, and care.   

In 2025, that work was once again recognised with the REINZ Individual Business Broking Salesperson of the Year award — Linda’s fourth time receiving the industry’s top individual honour. 

“When my name was called for REINZ Business Broker Salesperson of the Year, I felt truly humbled,” says Linda. “Selling a business is often the biggest financial and emotional decision an owner will ever make, so to be recognised for guiding clients through that journey — and my passion for achieving outstanding results — is very rewarding.” 

“This award reflects the trust that business owners place in us. I’m proud to have helped so many childcare owners achieve a successful sale and step confidently into their next chapter.” 

“I also want to acknowledge the incredible support of my colleagues at ABC Business Sales and Float Mortgages. We are a team that shares knowledge, supports one another, and always puts clients first. This recognition belongs as much to them as it does to me.” 

Linda’s leadership also extends beyond her personal portfolio. As Managing Partner of ABC’s Tauranga office, she’s shaped a culture built on professionalism, care, and integrity — and in 2025, that was recognised too. 

The Tauranga team was named REINZ Small Business Broking Office of the Year — a testament to the standards Linda has set and the strength of the team around her. 

 “This award recognises the dedication of our entire team to delivering exceptional results for our clients,” Linda says. 

“Selling a business is a significant milestone, and we’re proud to guide owners through that journey with professionalism and heart. This recognition reflects not only our commitment to excellence but also the trust that business owners place in us every day — a responsibility we are privileged to carry”. 

High volume, high standards — every time 

As New Zealand’s largest and most active business broking office, ABC Auckland sets the pace — not just in volume, but in how business is done. In 2025, that standard was recognised with the REINZ Large Business Broking Office of the Year award.   

Backed by a high-performing team and a strong regional network, the Auckland office continues to deliver results that reflect ABC’s vendor-first principles: market expertise, vendor-first service, and a commitment to doing the job properly, every time. 

“This isn’t just about one result, it’s about consistently showing up for vendors and delivering what we say we will,” says James Sheppard, General Manager at ABC Auckland. 

“Business sales can be complex, emotional, and high-stakes. That’s why we focus on service, preparation, and clear communication, so every client feels supported, informed, and confident at every step.”  

“This award reflects the standards we’ve set across the Auckland office. We’re proud of the results, but even more proud of the way we achieve them, through trust, teamwork, and always doing right by the vendor.” 

A moment worth celebrating — and building on 

At ABC, we don’t enter awards to win trophies. We do it to validate what we believe: that expert advice, strong relationships, and trusted service deliver better results for business owners — and set a higher standard for the industry. 

These four REINZ Awards reflect more than a strong year — they reflect who we are, how we operate, and why more New Zealanders trust ABC when it’s time to sell.  

So, while we’re proud of the recognition, we’re even more focused on what comes next: 
Helping more business owners sell their legacies with confidence, and more buyers take bold steps toward building something of their own. 

Ready to take the next step? 

Whether you’re planning ahead or need to act now, ABC’s award-winning team can guide you through the business sales process with clarity, care, and confidence. 

Sell your legacy with confidence: Let New Zealand’s most trusted brokers guide your next chapter.