Sam Kennard (CEO of Kennards Self Storage) with Caroline Plowman (CEO
of National Mini Storage) outside National Mini Storage, Hobsonville, Auckland NZ On July 1st, National Mini Storage officially became part of the Kennards Self Storage business, marking a significant milestone in the Australasian self storage industry.
Following a competitive sale process launched in early 2025, Kennards Self Storage emerged as the successful bidder amidst strong international investor interest. As one of the largest privately-owned self storage companies globally, Kennards continues to strengthen its footprint in New Zealand.
The acquisition adds 13 operating locations in Auckland to Kennards’ existing New Zealand portfolio, expanding its national network to 24 centres—16 of which are now in Auckland. This consolidation clearly positions Kennards as the leading self storage provider in the country’s largest city.
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
Founded in 1991, National Mini Storage was inspired by a concept discovered during a visit to Australia. Its first facility was developed on land acquired in Penrose, initiating a steady and strategic expansion across Auckland. Over three decades, the company built a strong metropolitan presence and became the city’s leading storage operator.
Reflecting on the journey, the founder expressed pride in the company’s reputation and growth, and satisfaction in seeing the assets transition to another privately-owned family enterprise.
Commitment to Quality and Service
Kennards first entered the New Zealand market in 2007 through a portfolio acquisition that included locations in Hawkes Bay, Tauranga, and Palmerston North. Subsequent expansions brought the brand to Wellington and Auckland’s Wairau Valley.
“We are delighted to have acquired the National Mini Storage portfolio,” said Sam Kennard, CEO of Kennards Self Storage. “It’s an iconic Auckland brand with an exceptionally well-developed portfolio. The locations offer a superior customer experience and set a high benchmark for quality and service.”
With over 30 years of leadership, Sam Kennard has overseen significant growth since joining the company in 1991. He emphasized the alignment in values between the two businesses: “National Mini Storage shared our commitment to asset quality and prime location selection. This made the acquisition a compelling opportunity. Together, our combined Auckland presence will offer the strongest and most accessible storage solution in the market.”
Enhancing the Customer Experience
Kennards plans to enhance the customer offering with a wider range of moving supplies, value-added services, and its signature customer service. Importantly, existing customers will continue to be served by the same familiar faces.
The company will also expand its corporate storage solution, known as Business Class, across the broader New Zealand network. This service caters to large enterprises requiring multiple storage locations, offering a unified and professional experience.
Kennards’ popular delivery concierge service—which manages inbound and outbound deliveries for business customers—will also be extended. Additionally, climate-controlled wine cellars are available in Wellington, Mt Eden, and Wairau Valley.
A Rare and Strategic Acquisition
Self storage remains a highly attractive segment of the property sector, drawing interest from institutional investors worldwide. High-quality portfolio transactions are rare in Australia and New Zealand, often taking decades to assemble and mature.
With the completion of this acquisition, Kennards Self Storage now operates 126 locations with a market value exceeding $4 billion. The New Zealand portfolio accounts for 24 locations, including 16 in Auckland, representing 18% of the company’s total rentable area.
A Trans-Tasman Heritage
Kennards Self Storage is proudly Australian, but with deep New Zealand roots. Sam Kennard’s grandmother hailed from Palmerston North, his grandfather from Whangarei, and his mother grew up in Ngāruawāhia—making him “half Kiwi.” The family’s enduring connection to New Zealand underscores their long-term commitment to the country.
