I’ll never forget the time my own “DIY” bookkeeping system—if you could call it that—landed me in a tangle of late fees, missed payments, and a panicked call to my accountant just days before tax time. 

It’s easy to think that keeping the books is just a matter of plugging numbers into a spreadsheet, but my own blunders proved how quickly things can go wrong—especially when you’re juggling everything else that comes with running a business. 

That’s exactly why I set out to find the best bookkeeping services New Zealand has to offer, so others don’t have to learn the hard way like I did. 

I spoke to experts, pored over client reviews, and gathered insights from business owners up and down the country. Here are the experts who can actually keep your books (and sanity) in check.

1. Absolute Bookkeeping Services

Absolute Bookkeeping Services shines as a top option for Kiwi businesses wanting reliable, cloud-based bookkeeping that simplifies things. 

Led by Kate, a certified Xero advisor and payroll specialist, this firm has gained a reputation for being professional and adaptable. They can handle even the trickiest accounts. 

Many people have shared how Kate’s skills have really helped their businesses—one owner mentioned she reconciled hundreds of transactions and connected them with the right CRM support, making everything run smoother. 

I’m a big fan of the firm’s Small Business Assistant Package. It offers monthly reconciliations for up to 200 bank and credit card transactions, GST prep and filing, plus detailed reporting. 

When I talked to other businesses, many praised Kate’se quick communication and proactive reminders. This is important to me as it helps you be on top of deadlines and compliance. 

One downside is that while most found the Xero setup straightforward, a few wished they had a bit more guidance during onboarding. Still, if you’re looking for a friendly and skilled bookkeeper, Absolute Bookkeeping Services is a smart choice

Her hard work, attention to detail, and dedication are second to none

“I can’t recommend Kate at Absolute Bookkeeping highly enough! Her hard work, attention to detail, and dedication are second to none. Kate has consistently gone above and beyond, ensuring that every financial record is handled with precision and care. Her professionalism and proactive approach make her an invaluable asset to our business. If you’re looking for someone who is not only diligent but also a true expert in bookkeeping, Kate is the person you want. Kate manages all of our financials and we work together closely on a daily basis.”

• Elizabeth Hart, Google Reviews

It is without hesitation that we will continue to use her 

“Kate Page @ Absolute Bookkeeping Services has been employed by McNeil Transports to do our bookkeeping and GST since 2016. In this time I have found her to be extremely proficient in everything she does. It is without hesitation that we will continue to use her and wish her very well with her new business. I would highly recommend her.”

• James McNeil, Google Reviews

2. GoFi8ure

GoFi8ure’s all-in-one approach to financial management really hits home with Kiwi small business owners. 

What makes GoFi8ure special is its ability to tackle a wide range of bookkeeping tasks—from the basics like cash management and bank reconciliation to tricky stuff like FBT calculations and end-of-year accounts. 

Clients I’ve talked to particularly loved the firm’s invoicing and debtor management, noting significant improvements in cash flow. They said they finally stopped chasing payments since bringing GoFi8ure on board. 

Personally, I like how their strategic financial advice isn’t just about numbers; they help their clients make smart business choices. One entrepreneur even said GoFi8ure has brought order to chaos in their financial reporting.

Sure, some businesses pointed out there’s a small learning curve when getting used to their systems, but the long-term rewards of their structured approach have been priceless. 

Stability for the businesses and data we can rely on

“GoFigure have helped my business immensely, not only setting me up with Xero but also helping me understand my numbers.  Information and comms from them are prompt, thorough and efficient and they work hard to meet our needs, providing stability for the businesses and data we can rely on.  We now have better vision relating to our accounts moving forward and they’ve also helped with some financial coaching/mentoring which has contributed to better processes, practices and strategic orientation in our decision making.  Thanks heaps Lisa, Gabby and the team!“

• Steve Jupp, Google Reviews

Would highly recommend their services

“I first came across Go Fi8ure when we used Lisa and Gabby for a Xero and bookkeeping training session for our NFP organisation. They were both incredible. I have since changed my personal accountant to Go Fi8ure as they just make things so easy. I am a sole-trader and taxes can be so difficult to understand as a layman. Gabby is just a phone call away and never makes me feel silly with all of the questions I ask. Would highly recommend their services for individuals and organisations alike.”

• Tihema Nicol, Google Reviews 

3. Bookworx Accounting Limited

Bookworx is great for Kiwi businesses that want to ditch the stress of bookkeeping. They handle everything from everyday bookkeeping to tricky year-end tasks, and they’ve got a chartered accountant on hand to keep things straight. 

It’s nice that they take care of GST processing and filing, and many busy business owners have praised them for helping with compliance deadlines.

On the flip side, if you just need help with a specific task like payroll or invoicing now and then, their services might not be as flexible. You might end up paying for services you don’t always use.

That said, they do a solid job with bank reconciliation and managing accounts. Plus, their cash flow forecasting gives business owners the info they need to make smart choices. 

What I find really cool is that they also provide software training support with certified Xero advisors, who can help out from the basics to more advanced stuff. I think this is good for busy business owners wearing many hats.

Was one of the best decisions I’ve made

“I moved my business to Bookworx almost 2 years ago for both accounting and bookkeeping services and I must say it was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my 10 years of running this company. Matt & Nat are not only great at what they do but also excellent communicators, great to work with and I always enjoy our catch ups. They’re happy to chat through any questions I have whenever I have them, they have given me some really sound and effective accounting and payroll advice and we have built a great working relationship. They also fit in around my schedule given I have a young toddler and another on the way, which I really appreciate. I enjoy working with them so much that we’re looking to transfer my husband’s business over too! Thanks guys!”

• Mel Lee, Google Reviews 

They are only ever a call away and always sure to help

“Bookworx have been doing working with both mine and my partners business.

We trust the team implicitly and always know we get the best service and advice.

They are only ever a call away and always sure to help, even with curly questions!

We have no hesitation to 100% recommend them to anyone needing a trusted book keeper or accountant.”

• J Hammond, Google Reviews

4. Office Crew

Office Crew has a knack for turning chaotic financial systems into efficient processes that make sense for business owners. It’s led by Sarah, who clients fondly call their admin angel.

What really impresses me about Office Crew is their three-step approach. It starts with a genuine conversation about your business goals. This consultative feel has earned them devoted clients across different industries, from construction to property advisory.

I especially appreciate their customized packages. Instead of a one-size-fits-all solution, Office Crew works with you to build a package that matches your exact needs. 

Whether you require basic services like bank reconciliation or more advanced support, they tailor everything so you only pay for what you actually use. 

The only downside is their services book up quickly, so you might face a bit of a wait before they get started on your books. 

Great to deal with and always very helpful

“Sarah and the team at OfficeCrew are great to deal with and always very helpful. I can relax knowing it’s all taken care of. Thanks crew!” 

• Jason Seaward, Google Reviews

She’s a real person who genuinely wants to help your business

“Sarah is superb. She’s a real person who genuinely wants to help your business. She’s a bit of a Jack of all Trades but also a Master of Many. Highly Recommend.”

• Matt Richens, Google Reviews

5. The Office Lady NZ Limited

The Office Lady NZ aim to help entrepreneurs focus on what they do best, which fits well with the no-nonsense style that New Zealand businesses often prefer. 

One of their standout services is Xero reconciliation. Many have shared that it saves them a lot of time and makes their numbers more accurate. What used to take business hours now happens like magic. 

I like how this same efficiency applies to their GST return prep, which has helped many business owners avoid the last-minute rush they used to experience. 

And when it comes to financial reporting, The Office Lady NZ gives you real insights that help make sense of complicated financial data. 

Business owners told me their accounts payable and receivable management has really helped with cash flow.

That said, a few said it took some time to adjust after switching from their previous systems.

Has been an absolute lifesaver 

“Emma has been an absolute lifesaver with getting our small business accounting software sorted & guiding us through the changes that were needed. She has a huge amount of knowledge & is more than happy to share her tips & tricks with you! She is kind, practical & you always feel comfortable asking her the “silly’ questions. I would highly recommend Emma to anyone starting out! You will not be disappointed.”

• Liv Moir, Google Reviews

No job is too big or too small 

“Emma has been an integral part of starting up my small business, no job is too big or too small for her and she has been such a hero in helping me navigate many tricky situations, she comes highly recommended and I’m so glad I found her! I recommend Emma to everyone I know 😊 …”

• Aroha Brott, Google Reviews 

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