84 | The right specialist rural expertise Tony, Kate and Alan. Karen Phelps For more than 25 years, BM Accounting Limited has been supporting Hawke’s Bay farmers with specialist rural expertise, practical guidance and genuine care. Established in 2000, the firm has built long lasting relationships across the region by combining professional accounting services with a deep understanding of rural life. Director Kate Laugesen, who also owns a farm, says BM Accounting’s approach is anything but one size fits all. “We’re not cookie cutter accountants. We deliver bespoke services to our clients. A farm is life, it’s work, it’s intergenerational. There is a lot of emotion attached to the land.” Fellow director Alan Maxwell, raised on a farm himself, notes that farming is a cyclic and an ever changing industry - one where trusted partners matter. “We’re not just number crunchers. We walk alongside farmers, helping them understand their numbers, make confident decisions, leverage technology and plan for the long term.” Rather than limiting contact to yearend obligations, BM Accounting works proactively with clients throughout the year. The firm offers monthly services, management reporting, cashflow forecasting and one-on-one coaching to give farmers clarity and control in real time. Senior associate Melissa Horsefield says the difference is significant. “Our management reporting service provides up to date financial reporting, clear commentary on performance against budgets and insights into opportunities and threats - all face to face rather than impersonal reports.” Succession planning is another cornerstone of BM Accounting’s rural offering. Senior associate Kelly Millar says helping families plan early ensures smoother transitions and protects long term goals. “We guide clients through solutions for growth and profitability while supporting their intergenerational vision.” BM Accounting’s client first philosophy is especially evident during periods of hardship. Following Cyclone Gabrielle, and again during Covid, the team reached out directly to clients to check on their wellbeing and offer practical support. “It’s about being there for our clients when they need us most,” says Kate. Beyond compliance, the firm also advises on business structures, banking relationships and software solutions. RURAL SERVICES » BM Accounting Ltd “Whether it’s a sole trader, partnership, company or trust, we ensure the structure fits the client’s current needs and future ambitions,” says Alan. The team frequently reviews accounting and bookkeeping processes to save farmers time and improve accuracy. Melissa notes that the firm often serves as the bridge between farmers and other professionals who may not fully understand the sector’s unique challenges. BM Accounting also organises seminars to keep clients informed, including a recent event featuring Farm Focus, Resolution App, and MyEnviro. Outside the office, BM Accounting supports various local clubs and charities. With offices in Havelock North and Waipukurau, the team remains deeply connected to the Hawke’s Bay community. For the rural team, working with farming families is more than a profession - it’s a passion. “Our rural team is passionate about seeing clients succeed both in the office and in the paddock,” says Kate. “We want to keep working with great farming families,” adds Alan, “and supporting them in their life goals.” Alan Maxwell, Kelly Millar, Kate Laugesen, Melissa Horsefield and Tony Mossman www.bm.co.nz HAVELOCK NORTH 06 876 7159 WAIPUKURAU 06 857 8901 RURAL ADVICE HERE TO HELP
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