| 71 Ben Mayne Plumbing CONTRACTING Ben Mayne Plumbing operates on a strong fixed-price model wherever possible, giving clients clarity on full project costs upfront. Know your numbers; make better business decisions. ith the first provisional tax payment due in August, Spencer Lawrence Accounting is preparing for one of its busiest periods as business owners across the country turn their focus to compliance, cashflow, and forward planning. For many small and medium size businesses, June marks a critical point where the financial year starts to come into sharper focus. Businesses begin compiling their financial information, and the next tax obligations begin to take shape. For Spencer Lawrence Accounting director Rebecca Stilton, it is also a time when business owners need clear, practical advice they can actually use. “By June, business owners are asking what their position really looks like and what their next tax payment might be,” she says. “That depends heavily on their March 2026 figures, so this is when good information and clear advice really matter.” This year, those conversations are being shaped by wider economic pressures, including ongoing uncertainty around fuel supply and rising operating costs. Rebecca says many businesses are already adapting. “People are not waiting to see what happens, they are making changes now. For tradespeople in particular, we are seeing pricing adjustments and travel costs being added in, and it is not just fuel. Power and other expenses are increasing as well.” In that environment, maintaining profitability requires a proactive approach. Rebecca says understanding the numbers is only part of the equation. “For me, every business tells a story. Our role is to help interpret that story and explain it in language that makes sense to the business owner. Once they understand what their numbers are saying, they can make better decisions about where to next and what opportunities are in front of them.” That focus on empowerment sits at the core of Spencer Lawrence Accounting’s approach. Through a mix of compliance, tax planning, and advisory services, Spencer Lawrence Accounting works alongside clients to build confidence and capability. The firm supports clients nationwide, with technology enabling a fully connected service regardless of location. Rebecca says the shift to online engagement has been one of the most significant changes in recent years. “Before Covid, I had never done an online meeting in my life. Now it is part of everyday business. Whether we are meeting in person or online, the goal is the same. We want to understand the business, the purpose behind it, and the challenges being faced.” That emphasis on relationships is reflected in the firm’s client base, which includes businesses such as Ben Mayne Plumbing. Rebecca says taking the time to understand each client’s operation is what sets the practice apart. “I had a client recently say I was the only accountant who actually asked about their business. That is important to us. We are not just processing numbers, we are working with people and their goals.” Alongside professional services, Rebecca maintains a strong community focus, contributing by puppy raising guide dogs for Blind Low vision NZ. The dogs are a regular and valued presence in the oce, many clients coming just to see the dogs. rebecca@sla.net.nz We empower business owners to understand their business so they can make better financial decisions. Connect With Us. admin@sla.net.nz 09 886 4711 Unit B1, 75 Corinthian Drive, PO Box 301 822, Albany, Auckland, 0752 www.slaccounting.co.nz Accounting & Tax • Business Planning • Accountability & Support Building confidence and capability
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