Accountant and auditor

Accountants provide accounting services to companies, organisations and individuals. They prepare financial statements and forms and advise clients on financial aspects of business.

Also known as

Accountant, auditor, accounting technician, financial accountant, accountant (auditor), external auditor, internal auditor

Work environment

Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
Usually work in offices and may travel locally to visit clients
Need to be methodical, accurate and responsible

Salary information

MOST COMMON

UPPER

LOWER

$56K-$181K 56000

Typical tasks

Set up financial statements, reports and budgets
Record money spent and received
Prepare GST and tax returns
Develop and check budgets
Examine financial records
Advise on business finances
Review accounting processes
Analyse financial performance of businesses
Assist with key financial planning
Manage cashflows and resources

Outlook

Accounting and auditing remain important across New Zealand because organisations need accurate financial information, strong controls and trusted advice. The profession is changing as cloud accounting, automation, data analytics and artificial intelligence take over routine tasks. Globally, accountants are also becoming more involved in sustainability reporting, risk management and business strategy. Future opportunities are strongest for people who can combine technical knowledge with digital confidence and good judgement.

What employers and industry want in graduates

Accuracy and attention to detail
Strong numeracy, analysis and problem-solving skills
Ethical judgement and respect for confidentiality
Confidence using accounting software and data tools
Clear communication with clients and teams
Curiosity about business, regulation and technology changes

AUT programmes

Accounting Major - Bachelor of Business

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

Tips from AUT graduates

“Take it step by step. There are no shortcuts. Consistent effort, persistence and a willingness to embrace challenges will take you far; just like it did for me in my accounting career.”

Jiaxin (Jessie) FanChief Accountant, Radisson RED AucklandMaster of Professional Accounting

Further study options

Back to search

Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.

This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.