This year Walker Wayland helped fundraise $1,218 for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, so they can continue to fund education, research and patient support.

With more than 3,500 Kiwis diagnosed with breast cancer each year in New Zealand, the impact reaches far and wide – it’s likely we all know someone who has been affected.

A big thank you to staff and clients for your donations! 

Our team also came together for a heartfelt Pink Ribbon Breakfast in support of breast cancer awareness.  It was a wonderful opportunity to share delicious food, meaningful conversations, and a strong sense of community—all while raising funds for an important cause.  Dressed in shades of pink, our staff showed their support and solidarity for those affected by breast cancer.  We're proud to stand together in making a difference

Walker Wayland’s annual New Zealand conference is a highlight in our calendar, bringing together professionals from across the country to share insights, foster collaboration, and discuss the latest developments in accounting and business advisory. This year’s event also attracted members of the Walker Wayland Australasian Executive and featured a series of engaging presentations and interactive sessions, providing attendees with valuable knowledge and networking opportunities as well as a chance to play. Our team-building session proved accountants can be a creative bunch and resulted in a well-received donation of new Lego sets to Starship Children's Hospital.

The New Zealand Government's 2025-2026 Budget, unveiled on May 22, marked a significant shift towards fiscal restraint amidst global economic uncertainties. Dubbed the "Growth Budget," it aims to stimulate productivity on the back of a smaller economy than previously forecast while maintaining tight control over public spending.

An “around the edges” approach was taken rather than the bold action some commentators suggest is required for New Zealand to address its productivity challenge, meaning tax related measures that align with a productivity agenda were few:

Investment Boost – Depreciation on the rise

The centrepiece of Budget 2025 is the Investment Boost—a targeted tax incentive designed to encourage businesses to invest in productive assets such as machinery, tools, and equipment (commercial buildings qualify but residential buildings and fixed-life intangible property do not). Under this scheme, businesses can deduct 20% of the value of a new asset acquired on or after 22 May 2025 from their taxable income in the year of purchase, in addition to claiming standard depreciation at the standard rate on the balance. This improves the cash flow associated with capital investments, making more projects financially feasible and spurring greater business investment.

Kiwisaver – Ups and downs

Budget 2025 introduced key changes to KiwiSaver aimed at helping New Zealanders save more effectively for their first home and retirement, while also improving the long-term fiscal sustainability of the scheme.  One of the changes include the default contribution rates for both employees and employers will gradually increase from 3% to 4% of salary and wages. This will be implemented in two stages: rising to 3.5% on 1 April 2026 and then to 4% on 1 April 2028. The phased approach gives workers and employers time to adjust and plan for the change.

To provide flexibility, employees will still have the option to temporarily reduce their contribution rate back to the current 3%, if needed. In such cases, employers will continue to match the lower rate, ensuring support remains in place for those who may face financial constraints at certain times.

The Government contribution will be halved and become means-tested with effect from July 2025, meaning it will not be available to anyone earning over $180,000 (based on filed tax returns).