How to choose the best chartered accountant for your business
Choosing an accountant is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your business. The right accountant will not only handle sensitive financial information but also guide your decision-making and future growth.
That’s why it’s essential to find a Chartered Accountant (CA) – not just any accountant. A CA has proven qualifications, experience, and membership in a recognised professional body. If you want the best, you should aim to work with a Chartered Accountant who can deliver more than basic bookkeeping.
So, how do you find an accountant who is genuinely the right fit? Let’s break it down.
What exactly is a Chartered Accountant?
Before you start searching, it’s important to understand what sets CAs apart.
A Chartered Accountant is someone who:
- Has completed an accounting degree at an approved university
- Holds a Graduate Diploma of Chartered Accounting
- Has undertaken three years of mentored practical experience with an approved employer
- Is a member of Chartered Accountants Australia + New Zealand (CA ANZ)
This pathway is widely regarded as the best Chartered Accountant qualification in New Zealand. It ensures you’re working with someone who has both technical skills and a commitment to ongoing professional standards.
Non-chartered accountants may have some experience, but they don’t hold the same accreditation or professional accountability. If you’re serious about business success, you’ll want to work with Chartered Accountants NZ rather than a general accountant.
How to Find a Good Accountant – Steps to Follow
Here are five practical steps you can take to find a CA who will be the right partner for your business:
Step 1: Cast Your Net
Start your search with recommendations from colleagues, business networks, and industry groups. Online directories and professional bodies such as CA ANZ can also be useful. You may be tempted to Google “how to find an accountant for small business,” but recommendations and professional listings will give you more reliable results.
Step 2: Narrow Your Search
Once you have a list, narrow it down. Check:
- Do they hold CA accreditation?
- Do they specialise in your industry?
- How do their services and fees compare?
- What impression do you get from their website and reviews?
Step 3: Connect With Your List
Book introductory calls. Ask about:
- Their pricing structure (flat fees vs hourly)
- Communication style and availability
- Familiarity with your accounting software
- Experience with businesses of your size and industry
- Whether they offer business advisory in addition to compliance
This step will help you decide who feels like the best CA for your business.
Step 4: Finalise Your Choice
By now, you’ll have a clear sense of who you trust. The right accountant should feel like a business partner – someone you can rely on for advice, responsiveness, and expertise.
Step 5: Confirm Key Details
Once chosen, complete onboarding promptly and provide all required documents. This helps your accountant manage your finances effectively from the start.
Make the Decision Simple
Finding the right accountant doesn’t need to be complicated. At Drumm Nevatt & Associates, we’re Chartered Accountants who work with businesses of all sizes across New Zealand. Our focus is on building long-term relationships where you feel confident asking questions and getting clear, practical advice.
We offer more than just compliance – our team can help with day-to-day accounting, rental property accounting, tax returns, trust management, and business development and coaching. These services are all designed to support your business at whatever stage it’s at.
If you’re looking for guidance from experienced Chartered Accountants NZ, we’d be happy to have a conversation and see how we can support your goals.
Streamline Your Business with a Registered Chartered Accounting Firm
Make the call today and trust your finances to our team of Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors
