Our Team

Meet Bernie

Bernie, a Director at DNA, starts his mornings with a long black coffee and wheatmeal toast topped with cream cheese and Marmite. He thrives on collaborating with his talented team, sharing ideas that spark innovation and support their professional growth.

Bernie’s accounting journey began straight out of high school, leading to the founding of DNA in 2017. Holding both CA and CPP qualifications, he’s transitioned from hands-on accounting work to offering expert business advice, with a focus on tax and trusts.

Outside of the office, Bernie enjoys sailing in the Hauraki Gulf and has completed nine Coastal Classics. He’s also an avid fan of rugby league and professional boxing, often watching games with his family.

If he could have any superpower for a day, he’d choose time travel – to experience the architecture and culture of 1920s America firsthand.

Meet Jeremy

Jeremy joined DNA as a Manager, bringing extensive experience from his career in public practice accounting. With a BCom (Hons) from the University of Auckland and his Chartered Accountant designation, he’s well-equipped to provide valuable support to both clients and team members – a role he finds truly rewarding.

Jeremy starts his mornings by waking up naturally and enjoys running, walking the trails, and climbing the scenic mountains around Auckland. A passionate traveller, he loves discovering new cultures whenever he gets the chance. He describes DNA’s culture as friendly and a bit fast-paced, perfectly matching the dynamic environment they thrive in.

One of his proudest moments at work is seeing the relief and gratitude on a client’s face after guiding them successfully through an IRD meeting.

If he could have any superpower for a day, Jeremy would choose teleportation – giving him the freedom to explore the world’s wonders without long flights, while still enjoying the comfort of his own bed at night!

Meet Sian

Sian is a Senior Accountant at DNA, starting her day with emails and jumping into client work with enthusiasm. A qualified Chartered Accountant, she’s passionate about growing in her career and finds immense satisfaction in connecting with clients and helping them solve their challenges.

Outside of work, Sian enjoys playing badminton, traveling, listening to music, and getting lost in a good book. She values DNA’s friendly and supportive culture, where teamwork and personal growth are a priority.

Sian takes pride in providing clients with a stress-free experience, allowing them to focus on what matters most to them. One of her proudest accomplishments is becoming a Chartered Accountant, a milestone that reflects her dedication and hard work. Looking ahead, she’s excited to keep learning and apply her knowledge to support clients even more effectively.

If Sian could have any superpower for a day, she’d choose the ability to instantly read and remember everything – giving her the ultimate edge to expand her knowledge and enhance her client support!

Meet Ela

Ela Nawrot is a Senior Accountant at DNA who starts each morning with a strong cup of black coffee. She finds deep fulfilment in her work, whether navigating complex regulations or providing clients with clear, actionable guidance. Watching her clients succeed and grow brings her immense satisfaction, making her role both meaningful and rewarding.

Before joining DNA, Ela worked as an accountant for seven years in Ireland and nearly three years at a New Zealand accounting practice. She holds a Master’s degree in Accounting and Finance, is a CAANZ Accounting Technician, and is part-qualified with ACCA.

Outside of work, Ela enjoys swimming, reading, walking, and fishing. She describes DNA’s culture as family-like, highlighting the supportive environment among colleagues. Ela takes pride in her client relationships and values the impact of her work in helping them manage their taxes with confidence.

Meet Kim

Kim joined DNA as a Senior Accountant, bringing a wealth of experience from accounting firms in Taranaki, Warkworth, and Auckland. After the birth of her first son, she took on a role as a daycare accountant to stay closer to home. Kim is an Associate Chartered Accountant with CAANZ and is currently completing her degree.

In her free time, Kim stays active by refereeing football matches and lending a hand to local clubs over the summer. She also enjoys fishing, beach walks with her dog, and volunteering at the local football club bar. She values DNA’s warm, family-like culture and strives to make a positive impact by helping clients feel confident and supported in their journey.

Kim is excited about DNA’s future and the new opportunities it holds. If she could choose a superpower, it would be super speed—perfect for zipping through chores and spending more quality time with her loved ones.

Meet Sheree

Sheree is a Senior Accountant at DNA, bringing a strong commitment to continuous improvement to her role each day. With a Bachelor of Business Studies in Accountancy, Sheree’s journey has been one of dedication – balancing her studies with family life and appreciating the support of firms that adapted to her needs along the way. She’s grateful to have found a path where she can pursue her professional goals while enjoying family time.

Sheree’s day starts with a gym session and a strong coffee, setting her up to make a meaningful impact by helping clients reach their financial goals and reduce tax-related stress. She values the diverse skills within the DNA team and enjoys contributing to a positive, upbeat culture. When she’s not working, Sheree loves travelling, camping, or diving into a good book – and she’s often checking in on the latest financial insights at interest.co.nz.

If she could have any superpower for a day, Sheree would choose invisibility – not for mischief, but to find new ways to lend a helping hand. She knows that a bit of extra kindness can make a big difference!

Meet Pat

Pat is a Senior Accountant at DNA, dedicated to providing excellent client service and mentoring young accountants. He starts each day with a perfectly brewed cup of French Earl Grey tea.

Before joining DNA, Pat gained valuable experience over three years at Biz Solutions and two years at BDO Auckland. He graduated from The University of Auckland in 2018 with a double major in Accounting and Commercial Law.

Outside of work, Pat enjoys reading, exploring different writing genres, and experimenting in the kitchen. He and his wife also love hiking, taking advantage of the stunning landscapes around Auckland.

Pat describes DNA’s culture as friendly and welcoming, with a focus on making clients feel secure, supported, and valued. Looking ahead, he’s excited about exploring more of New Zealand’s countryside, potentially becoming a parent, and publishing his book.

If Pat could have any superpower, it would be teleportation—to complete his travel bucket list in a day (with a space suit handy, just in case!).

Meet Claudine

Claudine joined DNA as a Senior Accountant, bringing a wealth of expertise to the team with her Xero and Hubdoc certifications and her Diploma in Accounting. Her journey with DNA began at just 22 when she started as a receptionist. Inspired by Bernie to dive deeper into accounting, she soon discovered her passion for numbers and financial analysis.

Claudine thrives on building strong client relationships and enjoys finding solutions tailored to each client’s unique challenges.

Outside of work, she loves spending quality time with her pets and exploring new interests. She values DNA’s family-oriented culture, which fosters empathy and creativity across the team.

If Claudine could have any superpower for a day, it would be mimicry – giving her the ability to master new skills and adapt to any situation with ease!

Meet Sheryl

Sheryl most recently spent 25 years working for Elders Rural in their head office holding roles ranging from Office Manager, Assistant Accountant to Payroll Manager. Sheryl has worked with Craig since 2005, firstly in the corporate environment and since May 2015 in his Chartered Accountancy practice.

Sheryl has a wide range of bookkeeping skills and has in recent years run payroll for up to 400 employees. Sheryl is fully trained in Reckon, MYOB Payroll, Greentree payroll and is Xero Payroll Certified. Sheryl principally works for a small number of clients providing day to day bookkeeping and payroll services.

Meet Peggy

Peggy joined DNA as a Junior Accountant after completing her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Auckland, and she’s now on her way to becoming a Chartered Accountant.

DNA marks Peggy’s first role directly linked to her studies, following a six-month stint as a cake shop assistant. She takes great pride in finalising projects and resolving client queries, always working to keep things moving smoothly.

Outside of work, Peggy loves sharing meals with her family, exploring new places, and unwinding with Nintendo games. She appreciates DNA’s positive culture, where responsibility and trust are valued both among team members and with clients. Peggy is excited to continue developing her skills and offering professional support to those around her.

If she could have any superpower for a day, she’d choose the ability to pause time—to catch up on everything without the rush!

Meet Dakota

Dakota joined DNA as an Accounting Cadet, embarking on her first role in the accounting field after discovering her passion for accounting in high school. She kicks off her mornings with a coffee and a pesto bagel, ready to tackle the day’s challenges.

Eager to learn, Dakota thrives on the chance to dive into accounting rules and processes, supported by her passionate co-workers. She appreciates DNA’s supportive, family-like culture, where everyone is always willing to lend a hand.

Outside of work, Dakota enjoys reading, tending to her indoor plants, and experimenting in the kitchen. Looking ahead, she’s excited about using her accounting skills to make a positive impact in other people’s lives.

If Dakota could have any superpower for a day, it would be teleportation – to skip the time and costs of commuting between Hamilton and Auckland!

Meet Rachel

Rachel is DNA’s Risk and Compliance Manager, overseeing our Risk and Compliance Framework and ensuring we meet all AML obligations. With over 19 years of experience in risk management from her roles at ASB, Unitec, and ANZ/National Bank, Rachel brings invaluable expertise to our team.

As a dedicated full-time mum, Rachel starts her day getting her kids ready for school and handling household tasks, only pausing to savour her first coffee. She loves contributing to DNA’s growth and values the strong connections she’s built with her colleagues.

Rachel describes DNA’s culture as supportive, respectful, and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on personal and professional growth. She takes pride in establishing a reliable risk management framework that fosters client trust. Looking ahead, she’s excited to watch her colleagues grow and embrace new opportunities.

If she could have any superpower for a day, Rachel would choose the power to heal – able to soothe her kids’ bumps and bruises with a simple touch!

Meet Samantha

Samantha joined DNA in September 2018 from DLA Piper.

Samantha has a wide range of experience working in law firms as a legal secretary and personal assistant.

She provides invaluable support to the DNA team and our clients.

Meet Megan

Megan is our Executive Assistant at DNA, playing a key role in keeping our directors organised and efficient. She brings a wealth of administrative experience, starting in a fitness club and then moving on to New Zealand’s largest transport company, where she quickly rose to the role of Executive Assistant. Drawn by her passion for business development, Megan made the switch to the accounting field, viewing accounting as the true “language of business.”

Each day, Megan finds motivation in the knowledge she gains and the new challenges she tackles. Outside of work, she enjoys long evening walks with her husband and can’t resist homemade crepes with chocolate sauce for breakfast.

Megan describes DNA’s culture as collaborative, knowing that her work behind the scenes ultimately contributes to a smooth experience for clients. She looks forward to expanding her skills in accounting administration and diving deeper into her interests in business development.

If she could have any superpower for a day, Megan would choose time travel – to see the world as it was before the tech revolution!

Meet Jodi

Jodi is the Client Services Manager at DNA, where she thrives on engaging with clients and building strong relationships. Her role involves close collaboration with the team to ensure smooth communication, coordination, and growth – a mix that makes her work both dynamic and rewarding.

Before joining DNA, Jodi developed a customer-focused career in the travel and tourism sector, taking on various roles in hospitality. Her journey included positions at top hotels and with Air New Zealand, where she advanced into management.

Outside of work, Jodi loves spending time with her son, exploring scenic bike trails, and setting out on camping adventures in her pop-top camper. She also enjoys baking, crafting, and watching motorsport.

Jodi describes DNA as a vibrant team with a strong focus on family values and a supportive culture, enhanced by regular social events. She believes her team’s warm, approachable style helps clients feel valued from their very first interaction.

Read Jodi’s full profile…

Meet Jo

Jo works Tuesday to Friday. She has over 25 years of administration, PA and reception experience and has held roles in small, medium and large sized companies ranging from the private sector to large corporate entities.

Outside of work she is married with 2 daughters. Jo is actively involved in dance and netball and is umpire delegate for one of the local netball clubs. Outside of this time she enjoy walks, gardening, cooking, reading, travel and spending time with family and friends.

Meet Allison

As a Client Services Assistant at DNA, Allison finds purpose and fulfilment in her role, thriving in a supportive work environment. She starts her day with 20 – 30 minutes of exercise to stay energised.

Before joining DNA, Allison spent nearly 10 years in various roles at ASB Bank, co-owned a telecommunications business with her husband, and worked as a Learning Support Assistant at Cockle Bay Primary School. She brings a wealth of administrative and customer support experience to her current role.

Allison appreciates DNA’s open-door policy, where challenges are openly discussed, and feedback is welcomed. She believes her motivation and attentiveness contribute meaningfully to client satisfaction.

Outside of work, Allison enjoys spending time with her children, cooking, and baking. Looking forward, she hopes to build on past successes and approach setbacks with a new perspective.

If she could have any superpower, it would be the ability to control time, allowing her to savour every moment with her kids.