Members of the business community have been the
big winners in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list this year, while those
in politics have largely missed out. Many of these winners have
distinguished careers in business and have put much back into the
community through acts of philanthropy or other achievement, and Michael Friedlander is no exception to this rule.
Mr Friedlander, who received the Insignia of a Companion of the New
Zealand Order of Merit for services to the community, has contributed to
many local businesses and organisations in the Auckland region for more
than 40 years through the Friedlander Foundation, which he established
in the 1960s. He has assisted and sponsored many organisations in the
fields of tertiary education and research, youth development, and the
arts, as well as the Jewish community.
Among the many to have benefited from his generosity are the
Foundation for Youth Development, the Liggins Institute, the Business
Roundtable, the Auckland Art Gallery, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, and
the Erman Trust. Mr Friedlander has also been involved with the New
Zealand Centre for Independent Studies for 20 years and contributed
significantly to the Auckland Synagogue and the Kadimah School
refurbishment programme.
Michael Friedlander, LLB, was previously a partner of Keegan
Alexander, Barristers & Solicitors in the Auckland Central Business
District, and now operates as a consultant for them. Michael’s extensive
business, property, farming and investment interests enable him to
bring a wealth of commercial knowledge to the firm and its clients. He
is also a director of a number of substantial companies in Auckland.
As the new Ponsonby Central Development’s Andy Davies says,” Michael
Friedlander remains a very big influence on my business model. He is one
of the best developers there is.”
Michael Friedlander @ Scoop.co.nz