Accountants for ECEs Who Understand the Heart of Your Business
Running an early childhood education centre is no small task. You’re shaping young minds, managing staff, navigating regulations, and keeping parents happy—all while trying to stay financially afloat. At Business Like NZ Ltd, we’re accountants for ECEs who understand the unique challenges of the early childcare sector and are here to help you stay compliant, reduce your tax burden, and free up your time and mental space.
We’re a friendly, down-to-earth team of chartered accountants based in Auckland, working with ECE providers across New Zealand. Whether you’re a privately owned centre, a community-based provider, or part of a multi-site group, we’ve got the experience and tools to support your financial wellbeing.
Why Work With Business Like NZ Ltd?
We’re not just accountants—we’re your financial partners. We know the ECE sector inside and out, and we tailor our services to suit your funding model, staffing structure, and operational goals. Our team is approachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in helping your centre thrive.
Here’s what makes us a great fit for early childcare providers:
1. We Understand ECE Funding & Compliance
ECE centres operate under a unique funding model, with Ministry of Education subsidies, 20 Hours ECE, equity funding, and more. We’ll help you navigate these streams, ensure accurate reporting, and keep your centre compliant with all financial requirements. We also understand the importance of managing payroll, ratios, and operational costs in a sector where margins can be tight.
2. Tax Compliance You Can Trust
New Zealand’s tax rules can be complex—especially when you’re dealing with mixed funding sources, staff entitlements, and asset depreciation. We’ll make sure your tax returns are accurate, timely, and fully compliant with IRD requirements. From GST to PAYE, we’ve got your back.
3. Smart Tax Minimisation Strategies
We know how to help you keep more of your income. Our team will identify every legitimate deduction—from educational resources and staff training to rent, utilities, and equipment. We’ll also advise on the best structure for your centre to reduce your tax burden while staying within the rules.
4. Time Freedom
You’ve got enough on your plate without worrying about spreadsheets and tax deadlines. Let us take care of the accounting so you can focus on your staff, your children, and your community. We’ll handle the paperwork, the calculations, and the submissions—giving you back valuable hours every week.
5. Mind Freedom
There’s nothing worse than wondering if your tax return was filed correctly or if you’ve missed a payment. With Business Like NZ Ltd, you can relax knowing your accounting is in expert hands. We’re proactive, detail-oriented, and always here to answer your questions.
6. Nationwide Support
While we’re proudly based in Auckland, we work with ECE providers all over New Zealand. Thanks to cloud accounting tools like Xero and our streamlined digital systems, we can support you no matter where you’re based. Whether you’re in Rotorua, Nelson, Dunedin or anywhere in between, we’re just a Zoom call away.
What We Can Help With
Our services for early childcare providers include:
- Annual Financial Statements & Tax Returns
Tailored to your funding model and operational structure. - GST Returns & Advice
Including guidance on mixed-use expenses and apportionment. - Payroll & PAYE Support
Ensure staff are paid correctly and on time, with full compliance. - Budgeting & Cash Flow Planning
Stay on top of your finances and plan for future growth. - Ministry of Education Reporting Support
Accurate financial data for funding and compliance. - IRD Liaison & Audit Support
We’ll deal with the IRD on your behalf and support you through any reviews or audits. - Xero Setup & Training
Get your accounting software working for you, not the other way around.
Who We Work With
We support a wide range of ECE providers, including:
- Privately owned childcare centres
- Community-based and not-for-profit centres
- Kindergartens and preschools
- Multi-site operators
- Home-based ECE providers
Whether you’re just starting out or managing a well-established centre, we’ll tailor our services to suit your needs.
Relationships That Support Your Business
We believe accounting should be personal. That’s why we take the time to get to know you, your goals, and your challenges. We’re not just here to tick boxes—we’re here to help you build a financially sustainable centre that supports your staff, your families, and your community.
Our team is approachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in your success. We’ll explain things in plain English, keep you in the loop, and make sure you always feel supported.
Ready to Work With Accountants Who Understand ECE's?
If you’re looking for accountants for ECE's who understand your sector—and who’ll treat your centre like it’s their own—you’re in the right place.
Get in touch today and let’s talk about how Business Like NZ Ltd can help you take control of your finances and focus on what matters most: the children.
ECE Provider Accountants in Auckland
Accounting built on the belief that a business is more than just numbers; it’s an adventure enabling you to live the life you want. At Business Like, our accountants provide personal service and advice without the jargon, helping you make sense of it all.
Brendan Price – Partner
I started working at Business Like in late 2013 and appointed partner in 2017. I work with a wide range of clients in trades, manufacturing, technology, financial services as well as high net worth individuals. I’m passionate about helping business owners achieve their business and related goals. A keen fisherman and brewer, I love a beer in the weekends after a day with my young family.
I have a Bachelor of Business Studies with majors in Accounting and Marketing. I’m a Chartered Accountant and holds a current certificate of public practice.
Vinh Nguyen – Partner
With over 15 years of experience working in CA Firms, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the areas of business advisory, compliance and taxation. As an experienced client manager, my focus is on fostering and maintaining strong client relationships. I have two children and enjoy travelling and going to live music events.
I’m a Chartered Accountant (CA) with a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting and Commercial Law.