PHOTO: Former All Blacks Sevens star Kurt Baker, pictured here with sales consultant Lisa Swney, is now a real estate agent in Tauranga. Photo / Supplied
🏠 Rugby legend Kurt Baker trades the black jersey for a black blazer — and he’s already scoring big in property.
Former All Blacks Sevens dynamo Kurt Baker has swapped the thunder of the rugby field for the thrill of the open home. The two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Olympic silver medallist has officially joined Bower Real Estate in Tauranga as a sales consultant — and he’s not the only big name signing.
Joining Baker is finance heavyweight Dave Lathan, who has stepped into the role of Chief Financial Officer, marking a new era of growth and ambition for the fast-rising Bower brand.
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Bower’s Managing Director Anton Jones said the company’s fresh look and reputation for excellence had helped attract top-tier talent.
“As a sportsman, Kurt is used to high performance — he knows what it takes to get the job done,” Jones said.
“We’re also thrilled to welcome Dave, a highly respected financial expert. Their calibre shows where Bower is heading as a company.”
💼 From Rugby Boots to Real Estate Roots
After an illustrious 14-year rugby career, Baker hung up his boots in 2022 — but he wasn’t ready to slow down. The Palmerston North native, who once worked as an electrician and at ASB Bank before finding rugby fame, said real estate had always intrigued him.
“I’ve always been interested in property — every home tells its own story,” Baker said.
“Sport was my dream job. But if you asked me now, this would be it.”
Having bought and sold several homes since moving to Pāpāmoa in 2010, Baker saw firsthand how overwhelming the property process can be. Now, he’s determined to make that journey smoother for others.
Teaming up with seasoned agent Lisa Swney, Baker says the partnership is grounded in people-first values.
“It was a no-brainer,” he said. “We’re just good people helping good people.”
💰 Finance Pro Dave Lathan Joins as CFO
Meanwhile, Dave Lathan brings over 20 years of financial expertise to the Bower boardroom. A Chartered Accountant and former partner at Lathan & Associates, Lathan grew his firm from just two clients to more than 800 before returning to the corporate world.
“The stars really aligned,” Lathan said. “Bower is becoming a powerhouse brand — and I’m excited to help steer that success.”
Lathan’s career has spanned GE, Swiss Re, and major NZ firms, giving him a sharp commercial edge. His focus now? “Laying the train tracks” for Bower’s continued expansion and innovation.
🚀 The Future Looks Bright for Bower
With high-profile names joining the team and a clear vision for growth, Bower Real Estate is shaping up as one of New Zealand’s most ambitious property brands.
“Success attracts successful people,” Lathan added. “And Bower is on a winning streak.”
🏡 From sideline sprints to sold signs, it seems Kurt Baker has found his next big field to conquer.
SOURCE: SUNLIVE