Finding the best accountants in Christchurch is essential for businesses and individuals seeking expert tax compliance, audit services, and strategic business advisory. Christchurch’s dynamic economy benefits from chartered accounting firms that deliver personalized solutions and innovative support. Leading options include Nexia Christchurch and Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Christchurch, known for their comprehensive expertise.
1Nexia Christchurch
Nexia Christchurch is a prominent firm of chartered accountants and business advisors based in the CBD. With a team of over 85 professionals led by 11 partners, they deliver the full range of accounting, audit, tax, and business advisory services to clients across Canterbury and nationally. Their connection to the Nexia International network provides additional global insights and resources.
Services
- Audit & Assurance
- Business Advisory
- Corporate Advisory
- Tax Consulting
- Turnaround and Restructuring
Highlights
- Member of Nexia International, one of the top 20 global accounting networks
- Certified as a Great Place to Work
- 11 partners and over 85 professionals based in Christchurch
- National presence with additional offices in Auckland and Hastings
- Strong emphasis on community support and client success stories
Location & Contact
Name: Nexia Christchurch
Address: Level 4, 123 Victoria Street, Christchurch 8013
Phone: 03 379 0829
Website: nexia.co.nz
2Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Christchurch
Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Christchurch is one of the city’s most established chartered accounting and business advisory firms. As a locally owned member of the global Baker Tilly International network, their large team provides high-end capability with a personal touch, including regular workshops and seminars for clients in various industries.
Services
- Audit, Assurance & Risk Management
- Tax Services
- Business Advisory
- Corporate Advisory
- Specialist Services
Highlights
- Part of the Baker Tilly International global network
- Canterbury Trusted and Toitū certified for environmental sustainability
- Regular workshops and seminars for business education
- Large team of dedicated local professionals
- Locally owned with access to international expertise
Location & Contact
Name: Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Christchurch
Address: Level 2, 329 Durham Street North, Christchurch
Phone: 03 343 0599
Website: bakertillysr.nz
3Kendons Chartered Accountants
Kendons Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors is a technology-focused firm in Christchurch that prioritizes strong client relationships. They offer expert business advice, tax and accounting compliance, and software solutions to support businesses in launching, building, and growing sustainably.
Services
- Tax & Accounting
- Business Advisory and Mentoring
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Company Formation & Administration
- Software Advisory and Xero Support
Highlights
- Experts in technology and software solutions for businesses
- Collaboration with banks, lawyers, and other professional advisors
- Focus on developing strong, ongoing client relationships
- Proactive approach to business planning and reporting
- Leadership in software advice and implementation
Location & Contact
Name: Kendons Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors
Address: Level 3, 6 Show Place, Addington, Christchurch
Website: accounting.co.nz
4Jarvis Accountants
Jarvis Accountants is a Christchurch firm of chartered accountants offering personalized support for small businesses and individuals. Their team emphasizes business improvement, tax and accounting services, and systems analysis to deliver clear insights and help clients achieve their personal and business goals.
Services
- Business Improvement and Performance Reviews
- Tax & Accounting
- Systems Analysis
- Goal Setting Sessions
- Accountability and Planning Support
Highlights
- Personalized, relationship-based approach tailored to client goals
- Led by Chartered Accountant Alan Jarvis
- Emphasis on understanding the person behind the business
- Frequent meetings and ongoing support sessions
- Focus on making financial information meaningful and actionable
Location & Contact
Name: Jarvis Accountants
Address: 3/239 Opawa Road, Christchurch
Phone: 03 366 4600
Website: jarvisaccountants.co.nz
5Matheson Rae Chartered Accountants
Matheson Rae Chartered Accountants is a team of experienced chartered accountants and business advisors in Christchurch, incorporating David Philpott & Associates. They provide a full range of services to help clients achieve personal and business goals with a focus on integrity, compliance, and innovative tools.
Services
- Bookkeeping and Accounting
- Business Advisory and Strategic Planning
- Tax Services including GST and Income Tax
- Payroll Services
- Xero Setup, Training and Support
Highlights
- Incorporating David Philpott & Associates with established history
- Focus on adding value and embracing innovative tools
- Work with clients across diverse industries and international locations
- Comprehensive offerings including valuations, trusts, and estate planning
- Positioned as an extension of clients’ own business teams
Location & Contact
Name: Matheson Rae Chartered Accountants
Address: Level One, 1 Papanui Road, Christchurch 8014
Phone: 03 343 3692
Website: mathesonrae.co.nz
Accountants in Christchurch at a Glance
| Business | Based in | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Nexia Christchurch | Christchurch | Member of Nexia International |
| Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Christchurch | Christchurch | Part of the Baker Tilly International global network |
| Kendons Chartered Accountants | Addington | Experts in technology and software solutions for businesses |
| Jarvis Accountants | Christchurch | Personalized, relationship-based approach tailored to client goals |
| Matheson Rae Chartered Accountants | Christchurch | Incorporating David Philpott & Associates with established history |
How to Choose the Right Accountants in Christchurch
- Confirm the firm consists of chartered accountants with appropriate professional credentials and membership in the relevant body.
- Assess experience relevant to your industry or specific needs such as property, agribusiness, or technology integration.
- Evaluate the firm’s size, access to senior partners, and capacity for complex advisory work.
- Check for strong expertise in cloud accounting tools like Xero and proactive use of technology.
- Consider communication style, responsiveness, and the balance between compliance services and strategic business advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christchurch Accountants
What services do chartered accountants in Christchurch typically provide?
Chartered accountants in Christchurch commonly offer tax compliance and planning, financial statement preparation, audit and assurance services, business advisory, payroll, and cloud accounting support. Many also provide specialist advice on areas such as corporate transactions, trusts, and succession planning.
How do I verify if an accountant is properly qualified in New Zealand?
Look for explicit statements on the firm’s own website confirming they are chartered accountants. The profession is regulated, and qualified practitioners typically highlight their credentials and membership in the relevant professional body on their site.
What should I consider when selecting an accountant for my small business?
Consider their experience with businesses of similar size and industry, their use of modern accounting software, the level of proactive advice offered beyond basic compliance, and how well their communication style matches your needs. Location and accessibility in Christchurch can also be practical factors.
Do Christchurch accountants offer cloud-based accounting support?
Yes, many firms in Christchurch specialize in cloud accounting platforms such as Xero, providing setup, training, ongoing support, and integration with other business tools to improve efficiency and real-time reporting.
Is it beneficial to work with a local Christchurch accountant?
Local firms often have a strong understanding of the Canterbury business environment and regional economic factors. They can provide more personalized service and easier in-person meetings while still accessing national or international networks for specialized advice.
What role does tax legislation play in accounting services?
Accountants ensure compliance with New Zealand tax laws, including the Income Tax Act and GST rules. For detailed information on current legislation, refer to official sources such as legislation.govt.nz.
How can accountants help with business growth in Christchurch?
Beyond compliance, accountants provide strategic planning, cash flow forecasting, budgeting, business valuations, and advice on structures or transactions that support sustainable growth and decision-making.
How We Chose the Best Accountants in Christchurch
Every business in this guide was found by searching for accountants in Christchurch, then checked against its own website. Names, addresses and phone numbers are taken from the business’s own site rather than a directory feed, so what you see here is what they publish themselves. We also check that each one is actually based in or genuinely serving Christchurch, rather than a national operator running a local landing page. A business with no website of its own is not listed, because there is no primary source to verify it against.