Sophie Ballagh

Harrington Road – Director

Founder | Change Maker | Globally Recognised Adventurer

Sophie Ballagh is a bold, grounded leader shaped by wild landscapes and high-stakes environments. For over two decades, she has led more than 20,000 people through some of the most extreme places on Earth — from the High Arctic to Antarctica.

Guiding in remote, unpredictable terrain honed her ability to lead under pressure, make clear decisions in uncertainty, and bring out the best in people when it matters most. It also reinforced her belief in the power of strong teams, shared responsibility, and backing each other to go further.

Those same qualities now define her work in business. Today, Sophie is a founder, investor, and strategic operator who builds ventures at the intersection of impact and commercial intelligence. She is Co-Founder of Harrington Road, an end-to-end property and life transition service supporting families through aged care moves, deceased estates, and complex property transitions.

The model funds and manages the entire process — from sorting a lifetime of belongings to strategic renovation and project management — delivering stronger financial outcomes while easing the emotional burden during pivotal life chapters.

Her broader portfolio includes sustainable consumer ventures and boutique accommodation, along with equity partnerships in property styling and waste management businesses.

Sophie is driven by growth, courage, and the conviction that business can be both profitable and profoundly human. She thrives in environments where bold ideas are shaped with discipline, collaboration, and collective intelligence.

Past Board Positions:
– Polar Tourism Guides Association, Inaugural Board Member
– WhiteWater NZ Board of Directors. (Formally NZRCA) Communications officer