Sir Rod Drury returns New Zealander of the Year award

Xero founder Sir Rod Drury has returned his 2026 New Zealander of the Year award, a spokesperson confirmed today.

Sir Rod was knighted in the 2026 New Year Honours and was awarded New Zealander of the Year in March.

The New Zealander of the Year Awards Office confirmed on Friday that Drury had "returned the award" following discussions.

"The New Zealander of the Year Awards exist to celebrate those whose contributions strengthen Aotearoa New Zealand and reflect the values of leadership, service, integrity and respect for others," the office said in a statement.

"Any matter that undermines or calls into question those values is not consistent with the standards and expectations we hold for the Awards programme."

The office said the 2026 New Zealander of the Year Award will not be re-awarded.

Stuff has reported that three former Xero staffers made complaints against Drury, alleging unwanted physical contact.

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Drury founded Xero in 2006 and was the company's chief executive until 2018.