Most Airbnb and Bookabach hosts don’t know this, but there’s an IRD rule that can make your rental income completely tax-free. It’s called the short-stay standard-cost method, and if you qualify: In this article, I’ll walk you through exactly how it works, who can use it, and the common mist...

Last week, I got a call from a rental property owner who was fuming. “I don’t get it, Baqir,” she said. “I lost money on this property. Between the mortgage, insurance, and repairs, I had to dip into my savings to keep it afloat. So why on earth is the IRD saying I owe them […]...

There’s a new tax incentive for businesses, and it could boost your cashflow if you play it right. The “Investment Boost” offers a 20% upfront deduction on eligible new business assets. But it comes with rules, limits, and potential pitfalls. In this article, I’ll unpack the key details ...

Seven out of ten new clients who come to me aren’t looking for someone better than their last accountant. In fact, their previous accountant was often technically brilliant. A genius with numbers. So why are they switching? That’s the first thing I ask when we start working together. And the...

Is there a way to pay $0 tax on rental income? Yes, there is. In fact, I’ve identified 12 different ways in my research. All completely legal under the Income Tax Act and approved by Inland Revenue (IRD). In this article, I’ll walk you through one of those ways: How to pay $0 tax on […]...

Ever wondered: What expenses can I claim on my personal tax return in New Zealand? The tax system is unfair for salary earners in New Zealand. And if you’re a salary earner? Most of these deductions are off-limits. While I don’t make the rules, I can help you navigate them. And If you play t...

Most businesses in New Zealand are set up as either sole traders, partnerships, or companies. Each structure has its own pros, cons, and tax rules. In this article, you’ll learn: Bonus To get a personalised recommendation, download my Free Business Structure Quiz. Just answer three quick quest...

Most New Zealand property owners overpay their taxes. In this article, you will learn how to minimise your tax burden, ensure Inland Revenue compliance, protect yourself from costly errors, and save yourself thousands of dollars along the way. I will cover: Bonus You can download my full guide at th...

For four years in a row, the World Bank ranked New Zealand as the #1 country in the world (out of 190 countries globally) in its Ease of Doing Business Index. And for the 15 years the report was published, New Zealand never dropped below third place, consistently outperforming major economies like A...

Last updated: 13 September 2025 If you’re self-employed or a business owner, you may be able to claim meal expenses – but be careful. The IRD doesn’t treat all meal costs equally. And meal expenses are one of the most misunderstood deductions in business. Some meals can be claimed 100%...