You’re more than just a number to us!

After a short stint in the commercial world, I began my Chartered Accounting career with an accounting practice in the city.  After 5 years of travelling into the city, I decided I would prefer to work in a smaller practice closer to home. I joined Stewart & Co Ltd in 1996 and went on to become a director in April 2000.  There have been many changes in the practice over these years, but the 2 constants are our fabulous team and great clients. For me, the best part of this industry is getting to know my clients and to be the one they call when they have a question.  I take it as a great compliment when my clients tell me that I am not a “typical accountant”! Outside of work, I am on the Executive Committee of the Harlequin Musical Theatre in Howick.  I enjoy spending time away in my caravan with family and friends. I am also passionate about music, scrapbooking and good wine.

After graduating with a BSocSC (majoring in Psychology and Education Studies), in 2005, I realised a dream of travelling to Japan.  Having survived a year living in Tokyo teaching Japanese children to speak English (unable to speak any Japanese myself), I returned home to New Zealand to marry my fiancé and find a new career path. I soon found that money was required to live and took a temporary role at Stewart & Co Ltd as the office secretary in 2006, and was very quickly offered a permanent position.  After a year, I began showing an interest in accounting work and so my training began.  I have since, with the support of Nole and Dale, completed a Diploma in Business and been moved into a full time accounting role.  I enjoy working with numbers and getting the best result from client’s financial records. In my spare time I am an avid book reader and watcher of sci-fi shows and movies.  I also enjoy card making, spending time with my friends and family and helping my husband with whatever project he is tinkering with this week.  One day I hope to return to Japan, but this time be able to speak more Japanese than “Watashi wa Laurinda des” (meaning – My name is Laurinda).

With more than 20 years of experience in executive support roles across various industries, I have developed a range of skills and competencies that enable me to work efficiently and effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. I love being able to support Dale and the team at Stewart & Co. At home I have 2 busy primary school aged children who keep myself and my partner on our toes.

I joined Stewart & Co Ltd in May 2005 after a break from working in accountancy, during which time I worked as an accountant in several small businesses and raised three daughters through their teenage years.  Prior to that, I was involved in both business advisory services and audit with a large city accounting firm. I enjoy the supportive environment at Stewart & Co and the friendly team. Away from the office I enjoy walking, gardening and spending time with family and friends, including nine grandchildren that keep me on my toes!

I am a broadly skilled, tertiary qualified Business Architect, Manager and Advisor with a strong analytical, financial and operational background. I am passionate in helping both businesses and individuals develop and obtain their goals. I have a proven track record in design and implementation of business change, coaching both management and staff in the implementation of designed changes, business improvement, financial analysis, management reporting and business planning.