Sir Rod Drury Receives Knighthood for Contributions to Business

Sir Rod Drury, co-founder of the accounting software company Xero, has been honored with a knighthood as a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit. This recognition, part of the New Year Honours, acknowledges his significant contributions to business, technology, and philanthropy in New Zealand and beyond.

Drury co-founded Xero in 2006, transforming it into a billion-dollar global enterprise. After retiring as chief executive in 2019, he relocated to Queenstown, where he has focused on utilizing his business acumen to benefit the local community. He expressed his commitment to various initiatives, stating, “Working on getting a hospital down to the Southern Lakes, putting in a lot of effort into that,” and noted his involvement in resolving public transport issues through a new gondola project.

Community Initiatives and Environmental Efforts

In addition to his work on healthcare and transportation, Drury has participated in several environmental restoration projects, including Mana Tāhuna and Project Tohu. He has also supported Surf Lifesaving New Zealand with essential funding for equipment and facilities, alongside initiatives aimed at aiding Ngāi Tahu students and artists.

To further bolster public infrastructure in Queenstown, Drury established Southern Infrastructure and the Tāhuna Ride and Conservation Trust, which focuses on regenerative planting and the development of mountain biking trails. His multifaceted approach demonstrates a commitment to not only business success but also to the welfare of the community and the environment.

Reflecting on his achievements in the corporate sector, Drury highlighted his pride in taking Xero public on both the New Zealand and Australian stock exchanges. “One of the things I have learnt over time is if you take a company public it gives a whole lot of other people the opportunity for financial security,” he said. He emphasized the importance of creating a company that provides investment opportunities for others, stating, “It’s a pretty noble cause.”

Recognition from Leadership

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised Drury’s impact on the country’s economy, noting that under his leadership, Xero became New Zealand’s second-largest tech exporter. The company generated thousands of jobs and served over four million customers globally. Luxon acknowledged Drury’s pioneering efforts in mental health and diversity initiatives and his ongoing commitment to public good infrastructure and philanthropic projects since 2020.

Sir Rod Drury is one of four new knights and three new dames recognized in this year’s New Year Honours, marking a significant moment in New Zealand’s celebration of exemplary citizens who have made notable contributions across various fields.