About us
As our name suggests, we believe in the power of collaboration.
Whether you’re buying your first home, building new, investing, or developing property, we’re here to make the finance side feel simpler and more achievable.
We work closely with major banks and trusted non-bank lenders across New Zealand to deliver tailored lending solutions, backed by expert advice and deep industry knowledge. We also have a deep understanding of construction finance, with real experience in new builds, turnkey funding, and development projects.
But beyond the paperwork, we’re about people. We take pride in building genuine relationships, offering clear advice, and supporting our clients through every step of their journey, no matter how big or small.
Sam Ludbrook
Director, Mortgage Adviser
Colab was founded by Sam Ludbrook, a long-time mortgage adviser with deep roots in mortgage lending and construction finance.
With over 25 years in the industry across both New Zealand and London, Sam has worked in major banks, non-bank lenders, and as a senior adviser at one of the country’s leading brokerages. But his real edge comes from having walked the same path as many of his clients.
Sam bought his first investment property in his twenties. Since then, he’s been through the ups and downs of home ownership, tackled renovations, subdivisions, and multi-unit developments, and knows firsthand the challenges of building and investing in today’s market.
He’s especially passionate about new builds and development lending, supporting clients through the build process and helping projects get off the ground with the right funding strategy.
Based in Auckland, Sam spends his downtime riding his e-bike, playing (very average) golf, and obsessing over architecture, music, and emerging tech. He’s all about keeping things real, cutting through the jargon, and helping people make smart, confident decisions.
Get in touch with Sam:
Ben Goldsmith
Mortgage Adviser
Ben Goldsmith brings nearly two decades of experience in finance, having started his career during the 2008 GFC.
He began at BNZ as a personal banker before moving into a mobile mortgage manager role, building a solid foundation in both banking and home lending. From there, he moved into mortgage advisory, where he’s known for being approachable, thorough, and the kind of person who’ll happily answer every question along the way.
Ben works with a mix of first home buyers, growing families, and clients looking to build. He’s especially passionate about new builds, which comes from his own hands-on experience. Over the years, he’s renovated, built two family homes, and completed a couple of townhouse developments, so he understands exactly what’s involved from start to finish.
Outside of work, Ben’s big into running. What started as the odd 5km park run quickly turned into ultra-distance events. He’s completed multiple 100-mile races and now takes on “backyard” challenges, where it’s all about being the last one standing. When he’s not running, he’s usually with his kids, out hiking or spending time at the beach.
Get in touch with Ben: