ING takes the top spot again

ING was last night named Fund Manager of the Year by rating agency Morningstar.

"ING's investment teams, now led by Rebecca Thomas, have again produced first-rate outcomes for New Zealand managed fund investors across a range of asset classes, a fitting tribute to the house's quality personnel and disciplined investment process," Morningstar said.

The awards - for New Zealand retail funds - are based on each fund's returns over the medium to long term and over the 2005 calendar year.

Dutch-owned ING has been a frequent winner of the fund manager of the year, also winning the multisector and property awards this year.

"This excellent performance is in direct and listed property investments in New Zealand and Australia," Morningstar said.

"The house's active management strategy, involving a number of strategic acquisitions, continues to pay rewards for New Zealand property fund investors."

Morningstar Fund Managers Of The Year

Fund Manager of the Year: ING.
Multisector: ING.
Fixed interest: National Bank.
Mortgages: Fund Managers Canterbury.
Property: ING.
Domestic equities: Fisher Funds.
International equities: AMP.