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We grew a startup client from 0 to 13,770 clients in just 11 months.

They had no debt and a 70% net profit margin.

Want to learn more? Contact us.

Jonathan Maharaj

Founder and CEO of Aurora Financials

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Virtual audits, accounting and business consulting reimagined

Business Growth

Partner with us to drive sustainable business growth

Xero Experts

Work with our progressive accounting practice as we seek to unlock the value in your organisation using leading tools like Xero

Financial Assurance

Our award-winning team delivers a comprehensive range of auditing and assurance services, giving you crystal-clear insights into your operations.

Looking for more services?

Jonathan Maharaj

Founder and CEO

20% of businesses fail in year 1 and only 25% survive 15 years (BLS data). Don’t be a statistic – elevate your business today!

Financial clarity is the cornerstone to better decision making. Let us crunch the numbers for you.


An award-winning accounting and business consulting firm for non-profits, startups, SME, and listed companies

Aurora Financials delivers practical financial management strategies and business advice.

We’re experts in Xero accounting, auditing, business turnaround, Virtual CFO services, financial reporting, risk management, valuations and other business consulting services.

We drive growth for businesses in New Zealand and other countries through effective strategies and digital tools.

Trusted by hundreds of clients like you, we help them achieve ambitious financial and strategic goals.

Reach out today and let’s work together.

Your communication was fantastic and ensured that we were able to get everything sorted without having to rush. Thank you for auditing our accounts. It was a pleasure working with you.

Lisa Beighton

Porirua Club’s General Manager

A virtual accounting and business consulting firm you can trust

 

We build long-term relationships with our clients based on trust.

We’re regulated and genuinely invested in your goals

Whether it’s financial or operational/strategic challenges, we’re here for you.

Reach out and let’s work together!

Don’t just take our word for it.
Here’s what our clients say:

Thank you for your fine work and support.

Mike Hinton

Chief Executive Officer

Jonathan takes a very professional and caring approach to his audits. He carefully listens to my clients and shows great respect for their point of view.

I have found Jonathan to be a huge asset to my business. This is demonstrated in the way that he communicates with me and my clients.

He not only audits their accounts but publishes them in a highly professional way that any client would be proud to show their regulators and stakeholders.

David Mintrom

Accountant and Business Owner

Trusted Team + Reliable Outcomes

Improve Your Financial Management

Benefits include enhanced financial decision-making capabilities, improved strategic planning, risk mitigation, increased profitability and better financial performance.

Be empowered with the knowledge and tools needed to lead your organisation towards sustainable growth and success in today’s dynamic business environment.

Strategic Financial Management Workshop

This will cover:

  • Aligning financial goals to strategy

  • Best practice financial processes
  • Forecasts and financial reporting

  • Business growth though insights

  • Quick wins to improve cashflow

  • Assessing risk management

  • Reviewing capital structure

  • Xero advice

We’ll be in touch soon!

What problem are you trying to solve?

What are the potential consequences of inaccurate or misleading financial reporting?2023-08-06T05:59:45+12:00

Inaccurate or misleading financial reporting can lead to:

  • Loss of investor and stakeholder trust.
  • Legal and regulatory penalties.
  • Difficulty in accessing financing or credit.
  • Damage to the company’s reputation and brand.
Can a NZX listed company benefit from financial reporting beyond regulatory compliance?2023-08-06T06:01:26+12:00

Absolutely! Financial reporting can provide valuable insights beyond regulatory compliance. It enables a listed company to:

  • Identify areas of inefficiency and cost savings.
  • Assess the performance of different business units or product lines.
  • Facilitate strategic decision-making and long-term planning.
  • Attract potential investors and business partners.
How can a NZX listed company improve the quality of its financial reporting?2023-08-06T06:02:41+12:00

To enhance the quality of financial reporting, a NZX listed company can:

  • Invest in robust accounting systems and financial reporting software.
  • Train finance teams and ensure compliance with accounting standards.
  • Engage experienced auditors for independent verification.
  • Adopt transparent and clear communication with investors and stakeholders.
  • Contact us to consult on your financial reporting compliance requirements.
How can we get started with your firm’s financial reporting services for our NZX listed company?2023-08-06T06:03:53+12:00

Getting started with our financial reporting services is easy. Simply contact our team through our website or phone, and we’ll schedule a consultation to understand your company’s specific requirements. We’ll then tailor our services to meet your needs, ensuring accurate and reliable financial reporting to comply with regulatory standards and enhance stakeholder confidence.

What are the major challenges faced by NZX listed companies in their financial reporting process?2023-08-06T06:04:42+12:00

NZX listed companies often encounter challenges like:

  • Complex accounting standards and evolving regulatory requirements.
  • Data management and accuracy, especially with large volumes of financial data.
  • Maintaining consistency in reporting across various subsidiaries and business segments.
  • Meeting tight reporting deadlines while ensuring accuracy and compliance.
How can we increase our grants and donations?2023-08-06T04:02:01+12:00

Funding is usually a challenge for non profits, so we’ve put together a comprehensive guide for Not for Profit Grants and Funding Tips. You can read more here.

What are the key differences between financial reporting for small businesses and large businesses?2023-08-06T06:05:31+12:00

The key differences include the level of detail and complexity. Large corporations typically have more complex financial transactions and extensive reporting requirements due to their size and public ownership. Small businesses might have simpler financial reporting needs, but they still need to comply with relevant accounting standards and regulations.

What is financial reporting, and why is it essential for businesses?2023-08-06T06:06:09+12:00

Financial reporting is the process of presenting a company’s financial performance and position to external stakeholders, such as investors, creditors, and regulators. It includes financial statements like the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement. Financial reporting is crucial as it provides a transparent view of the company’s financial health and helps stakeholders make informed decisions.

What are the benefits of creating a cash flow forecast?2024-04-22T01:03:13+12:00

A cash flow forecast helps you:

  • Anticipate cash shortages and plan accordingly.
  • Identify periods of excess cash for potential investments.
  • Make informed decisions about loans or financing needs.
  • Gain insights into your business’s financial performance and stability.
How can I manage my cash flow during economic downturns?2024-02-02T02:30:52+13:00

During tough economic times:

  • Re-evaluate and reduce non-essential expenses.
  • Strengthen relationships with key customers and suppliers.
  • Diversify revenue streams to reduce reliance on specific markets.
  • Build up cash reserves during favorable periods.
How can I attract investors and secure funding for my startup?2023-08-06T06:14:32+12:00

Attracting investors and securing funding is a challenge for many startups.

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide on how to secure funding and win investor confidence. You can read more here.

What are some common cash flow challenges for small businesses?2023-08-06T03:27:33+12:00

Common cash flow challenges for small businesses include:

  • Irregular customer payments and late receivables.
  • Seasonal fluctuations in demand and revenue.
  • Rapid growth leading to increased expenses.
  • Insufficient cash reserves for emergencies.
  • High fixed costs affecting flexibility.
What financial considerations should I keep in mind when starting a new business?2023-08-06T06:15:12+12:00

Starting a new business requires careful financial planning. Our team of experts can help you with budgeting, forecasting, and creating a solid financial plan to ensure your startup’s success. We’ll guide you through the process of estimating startup costs, setting financial milestones, and managing cash flow effectively.

What is cash flow, and why is it important for my business?2024-04-22T01:02:25+12:00

Cash flow is the movement of money in and out of your business over a specific period. It is crucial because it allows you to track the actual cash generated and used, ensuring you have enough to cover expenses, debts, and investments. Positive cash flow indicates financial health, while negative cash flow may lead to liquidity issues.

How can I optimise my startup’s accounting and bookkeeping processes?2023-08-06T06:16:11+12:00

Efficient accounting and bookkeeping processes are essential for startups to maintain financial health. Our accounting professionals can set up reliable systems, implement Xero accounting software, and provide ongoing support to streamline your financial operations. This will allow you to focus on growing your business while staying on top of your financial data.

How can we optimise cash flow management to improve liquidity?2023-08-04T03:32:30+12:00

We understand the importance of maintaining healthy cash flow.

To optimise your cash flow management, we’ll start by analysing your current financial processes and identifying areas for improvement. We’ll work closely with your team to create a tailored plan that ensures timely collections, efficient payment processing, and smart cash reserves management.

Our aim is to enhance your organisation’s liquidity, allowing you to focus more on your mission and less on financial constraints. Together, we’ll develop strategies to navigate potential challenges and keep your non-profit on a stable financial footing.

What are the benefits of conducting a financial audit for my startup?2023-08-06T06:16:58+12:00

A financial audit offers numerous benefits for startups. It provides credibility to potential investors and lenders, enhances your financial transparency, and helps identify areas for improvement. Our experienced auditors will conduct a thorough review of your financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.

We are a non-profit organisation. Can you help us?2023-08-06T03:40:25+12:00

Absolutely! We’re passionate about helping our community and non-profit organisations.

We understand the importance of your non-profit’s mission and impact. Our goal is to support you in achieving your objectives while maintaining financial integrity and transparency.

We look forward to partnering with you on your journey of making a positive difference in the community. Let’s work together to make your non-profit’s vision a reality!

What are some common financial pitfalls that startups should avoid?2023-08-06T06:17:25+12:00

Startups often face common financial pitfalls that can hinder their progress. We can identify potential risks and guide you in avoiding issues like inadequate cash reserves, overspending, and failing to plan for unforeseen expenses. Our advisory services will help you make informed decisions that protect your startup’s financial health.

What is Xero, and how can it benefit my business?2023-08-06T06:18:10+12:00

Xero is a cloud-based accounting software designed to simplify financial management for businesses of all sizes. With Xero, you can streamline your accounting processes, manage invoicing, track expenses, and access real-time financial data from anywhere. It offers a user-friendly interface, time-saving automation, and integrations with other business tools, making it an ideal solution to enhance efficiency and decision-making.

Can I migrate my existing financial data to Xero?2023-08-06T06:18:32+12:00

Yes, you can! Our team of Xero-certified experts can assist you in migrating your financial data from your previous accounting software or spreadsheets to Xero seamlessly. We’ll ensure a smooth transition, so you can continue managing your business with minimal disruption.

Does Xero integrate with other business applications?2023-08-06T06:19:05+12:00

Yes, Xero integrates with a wide range of business applications, including payment gateways, CRM software, inventory management tools, and more. These integrations enhance your business processes, streamline data flow, and provide a comprehensive view of your operations.

How can your firm assist in Xero implementation and support?2023-08-06T08:02:06+12:00

Our team comprises Xero-certified consultants with extensive experience in implementing and supporting Xero for businesses. We can help you with initial setup, data migration, customization, and training for your team. Additionally, we provide ongoing support to ensure you get the most out of Xero and your financial operations run smoothly.

How can Xero assist in tracking business expenses?2023-08-06T08:02:42+12:00

Xero makes expense tracking easy. You can link your bank accounts and credit cards to Xero, which automatically imports transactions and categorises expenses. You can also capture receipts using the Xero mobile app and attach them directly to expense records, simplifying the process of claiming deductions during tax season.

How can Xero help with invoicing and payment processing?2023-08-06T08:03:21+12:00

Xero simplifies invoicing and payment processing by allowing you to create and send professional invoices to clients effortlessly. You can customise invoices, set up automated reminders for overdue payments, and even offer online payment options for your customers. This improves cash flow and reduces the time spent on manual follow-ups.

What services do you provide to non profit organisations?2023-08-06T04:05:29+12:00

As an accounting and audit firm specialising in serving non-profits, we offer a range of services tailored to meet your unique needs and challenges.

  • Accounting System Implementation | Audit and Assurance
  • Board Governance and Advisory | Budgeting and Financial Planning | Cash Flow Management
  • Financial Analysis and Strategy | Financial Reporting and Compliance | Grant Compliance
  • Internal Controls and Risk Management | Outsourced CFO Services
  • Performance Metrics and KPIs | Risk Assessment and Management
  • Strategic Financial Consulting | Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
  • Training and Capacity Building
How can we improve our financial reporting to make better decisions?2023-08-04T03:35:43+12:00

Improving financial reporting is crucial for gaining insights into your performance.

Our team will collaborate with you to identify your specific reporting needs and design clear, easy-to-understand financial statements. With our expertise, you can expect timely and accurate reports that highlight key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to your non-profit’s goals. These actionable insights will enable you to track progress, identify trends, and allocate resources effectively. Transparent and comprehensive financial reporting will empower your team to make confident decisions that drive your success.

Can you provide guidance on international tax if we plan to expand globally?2023-08-04T03:38:42+12:00

No, we do not provide international tax advice. Please contact an expert with knowledge of international tax regulations and cross-border tax treaties for the markets you want to operate in.

What strategies can we implement to increase profitability and reduce costs?2024-04-22T01:03:06+12:00

We understand the importance of financial sustainability. Our goal is to help you increase profitability and manage costs efficiently. First, we’ll conduct a comprehensive financial analysis to identify areas where potential cost savings can be made. This may involve optimising your budget allocation, exploring grant opportunities, or enhancing fundraising efforts. Simultaneously, we’ll work on revenue-generating strategies to support your mission. By combining smart financial planning with creative approaches, we’ll empower your organisation to continue making a positive impact.

Can you assist us in creating a business plan for a new venture or expansion?2023-08-04T03:43:26+12:00

Absolutely! Crafting a solid business plan is critical for the success of any new venture or expansion. We’ll collaborate closely with your team to understand your goals, target market, and competitive landscape. We will help you develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your mission, objectives, and strategies to achieve success. This plan will include financial projections, risk assessments, and actionable steps to navigate potential challenges. Whether you’re launching a new product, service or expanding your reach, our goal is to ensure that your business plan is both well-structured and aligned with your core values.

Do you have expertise in implementing accounting systems to streamline our processes?2023-08-04T03:48:38+12:00

Certainly! Implementing efficient accounting systems is essential for optimising your non-profit’s financial processes. Our team has extensive experience in customising, and implementing  Xero accounting software tailored to your needs. We’ll work closely with your staff to understand your workflows and pain points. Then, we’ll deploy Xero’s user-friendly system that automates mundane tasks, simplifies reporting, and enhances accuracy. Our aim is to streamline your financial processes, enabling your team to focus on what truly matters – fulfilling your strategic objectives and adding value for stakeholders.

Do you provide specialist tax advice?2024-04-22T01:01:02+12:00

No, we do not provide specialist tax advice. We only assist clients with general tax compliance.

What’s the difference between cash flow and profit?2023-08-06T03:24:15+12:00

While profit represents the revenue earned minus expenses, cash flow focuses on the actual cash movement. A business can be profitable on paper but experience cash flow problems if customers delay payments or there are substantial upfront expenses.

What are the main benefits of hiring a business consultant for our nonprofit organisation?2023-08-06T03:56:43+12:00

Hiring a business consultant can bring numerous benefits, including:

  • Objective assessment of your organisation’s strengths and weaknesses.
  • Expert guidance in strategic planning and growth initiatives.
  • Improved operational efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Assistance in navigating complex legal and regulatory issues.
How can we measure our impact and outcomes?2023-08-06T03:56:15+12:00

To measure impact and outcomes:

  • Define clear and measurable goals aligned with your organisation’s mission.
  • Implement a monitoring and evaluation system to track progress.
  • Collect data on key performance indicators and analyse results regularly.
  • Use impact stories and case studies to showcase your organisation’s effectiveness.
What are the key financial reporting requirements for a NZX listed company?2023-08-06T04:11:34+12:00

Listed companies must comply with stringent financial reporting requirements, which include:

  • Prompt filing of audited annual financial statements with the stock exchange and regulatory authorities.
  • Interim financial reports to update investors on the company’s performance.
  • Compliance with New Zealand International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) which is Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Do you audit NZX listed companies?2023-08-06T04:12:32+12:00

No, we don’t audit NZX listed companies.

Can you provide financial reporting advice for NZX listed companies?2024-02-02T02:28:35+13:00

Yes, we work with NZX listed companies to comply with the requirements of NZ IFRS

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