Pathfinder was the big winner at the Mindful Money Ethical Investment Awards last night.

This article originally featured on Good Returns and was written by Good Returns. 

Pathfinder Asset Management won, for the second year running, the Most Ethical KiwiSaver provider and Best Retail investment provider.

Mindful Money founder Barry Coates says Pathfinder continues to push the boundaries of good practice. "The judges were impressed by the way that ethical/responsible investment is at the core of Pathfinder’s business model, and investment policies and practices are aligned with that approach."

"Their positive impact approach includes investment in sustainable themes, private equity, venture capital and support for social enterprises."

The Best Ethical Financial Adviser went to Peter Lee's Ethical Investing NZ business with former winner Rodger Spiller of Money Matters being Highly Commended.

Despite not winning the judges praised Spiller and were were "impressed at the way that Money Matters continues to innovate, providing high-quality bespoke solutions for clients."

"Rodger Spiller continues to provide thought leadership on financial advice, including a deep exploration of ethical values. His engagement and influence extend far beyond his client base, providing leadership on ethical issues across the financial advice sector."

With regards to Lee's business the judges "were impressed by the way that ethical approaches had been used as a basis for their client-centred approach. Ethical Investing Group provides in-depth information to clients accompanied by support to enhance their understanding of ethical and financial choices."

"There is a high standard of transparency, particularly around fees, so that clients are given full information about costs at the start of engagements."

The Best New Ethical Fund award was awarded to Devon’s Global Sustainability Fund. This new global equity fund launched into the New Zealand market recently, with a strong track record of ethical practice. There are a number of welcome features to the fund, such as the inclusion of emerging market investments, strong stewardship systems, and alignment to EU reporting standards.

The Best Overseas Fund award was a new addition to the Mindful Money Awards. The judges were looking for overseas investment funds, actively marketed within New Zealand, which are able to demonstrate the best ethical investment outcomes. The award went to Pengana WHEB Sustainable Impact Fund.

The judges were impressed by the thought leadership that Pengana WHEB has shown over many years. They recognised that the fund looks beyond investments in companies that create positive impact to also seek out companies that can catalyse change. The judges also commended the WHEB fund on its strong analytical approach to engagement and voting, along with excellent communications to financial advisers and clients.

The Best Impact Investment Fund was won by the Purpose Capital Impact Fund. Purpose Capital has $22 million invested in various projects including house a mussel farm and a solar farm.

Best Net Zero and Climate Action Investor award was picked up by the New Zealand Superannuation Fund.

The NZ Super Fund has been an early mover in developing a climate strategy, and setting and then exceeding targets for emissions reductions. The Super Fund has started to invest in climate solutions.