Bookkeeping & Payroll for Busy NZ Tradies Who Just Want It Sorted

We handle your bookkeeping, payroll and GST properly, on time, and without judgement - so you can focus on the job, not the paperwork.

✔ Xero Partner ✔ NZ-Based Support

Sound Familiar?

• GST deadlines creeping up again
• Payroll stressing you out every week
• Receipts stuffed in the ute or workshop
• IRD letters sitting unopened
• Doing accounts at night instead of being with family
• Never quite sure if everything’s right

We see this every week.

You don’t have to fly solo.

We sort messy books without judgement.
Just clear systems, reliable support, and straight answers when you need them.

Who We Help

Tradies & Contractors

Builders, electricians, plumbers, landscapers and growing trade teams across NZ who are great on the tools but don’t want to be stuck doing paperwork at night.

Retail & Hospitality

Shop owners, café operators and hospitality teams who need reliable bookkeeping and payroll systems behind the scenes so they can focus on customers.

Growing Service Businesses

Practical, hands-on business owners ready for proper systems, clear reporting and consistent support.

Not sure if you fit? If you’re running a business and want your books sorted properly, we can help

How We Help (Bookkeeping, Payroll and GST)

Ongoing Bookkeeping

Accurate, up-to-date books so you always know where your business stands. No more guessing, no more catching up - just steady, reliable support.

Payroll

Reliable, compliant payroll for businesses with staff. Wages, leave, IRD requirements - handled properly and on time.

GST & IRD Compliance

GST returns prepared and filed correctly, with clear communication and no last-minute stress. Stay compliant and in control.

Xero Setup & Clean-Ups

Behind on your books or not sure things are right? We clean it up, set it up properly, and get you back on track.

Not Sure what you need? Lets talk

Why Business Owners Choose Kowhai

Straight Talking Advice - No jargon, no confusion - just clear, practical answers so you always know where things stand

No Judgement, Even If You’re Behind - Messy books happen. We sort it out properly without making you feel bad about it

Reliable Systems That Don’t Miss Deadlines - GST, payroll, reporting - done on time, every time

Xero Partner Expertise - Certified Xero Partner, using the right tools and systems to keep everything running smoothly

NZ Based Support You Can Rely On - You’re dealing with a real person here in New Zealand - someone who understands your business and is easy to reach when you need help

Supported By a Trusted Team - Behind the scenes, Kowhai is supported by a carefully managed team, ensuring your work is completed efficiently and consistently

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  • Melissa Trow | Kowhai Business Services

    Melissa Trow

    Owner | Bookkeeping & Payroll Specialist

  • Thelma Eason - Kowhai Business Services

    Thelma Eason

    Bookkeeping & Payroll Specialist

Kowhai is led by Melissa, working alongside a trusted and experienced team, bringing years of combined experience in bookkeeping and payroll.

We care about doing things properly, communicating clearly, and making life easier for the businesses we work with.

Trusted By & Connected With

Welcoming a Limited Number of New Clients

We’re currently taking on a limited number of new clients each month to ensure every business we work with receives consistent, reliable support.

If you’ve been meaning to get your books sorted, now is a good time to get started.

Most of our clients come to us when things have fallen behind or become overwhelming - we’ll get you back on track quickly and properly.

Ready to Get Sorted?

We’ll take a look at where things are at, answer your questions, and give you a clear path forward.

No pressure - just a straightforward conversation.

No judgement. No pressure. Just clear answers.