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).

Prior to starting with Stewart & Co I spent the last 20+ years working in several varied and challenging roles within the Hotel Industry, Facilities Management and Administration areas. My roles have seen me working with many diverse teams, in different locations across Auckland. I am now enjoying the closer to home, supportive and down to earth environment at Stewart & Co. In my spare time you’ll usually find me running or walking the beautiful Pohutukawa Coast or reading a book… unless, of course, I’m performing my unpaid role of Chief Cheerleader / Taxi Driver for my teenage children’s various sport & dance pursuits.

I was born and raised in the Philippines and came to New Zealand when I was 17. After studying a Bachelor of Business, I started my accounting career in commercial firm before moving to accounting firms where I worked for many years and gained a wide range of accounting knowledge. I took some time away from work to care for my son then joined the supportive team of Stewart & Co in 2024. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling with my family, shopping and watching K-drama series.

Before working for BDO Wellington as an Intermediate Accountant I had numerous years’ experience in the commercial sector prior. I moved to Auckland to be closer to family and joined the Stewart & Co team where I look forward to working towards finalising my CA qualification. In my spare time I enjoy relaxing with a good movie or series.

I’m a recent accounting graduate, and I feel very fortunate to be starting my career with the supportive team at Stewart & Co. Every day brings new opportunities to learn, and I am enjoying learning from the experienced professionals around me as I continue developing my skills and work toward becoming a Chartered Accountant. Outside of work, I love spending time with my friends and family, especially learning to weave kete with my mum. I also enjoy other crafts with a tv show or podcast playing in the background.

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.