OUR PEOPLE
What makes Leafcutter so special is our people. We love them and you will too.
They're a talented bunch who are passionate about what they do and bring a variety of expertise and experience to every job. Their hard work and dedication means you can look forward to a service that goes above and beyond the norm.
MEET THE TEAM
Located in Wānaka, Claire is often out and about as the face of Leafcutter. With a rural upbringing, Claire is hardworking, driven, and has a 'can do' attitude. Claire has a Bachelor of Physical Education and a Diploma in Small Business and Project Management.
A member of the Institute of Directors New Zealand, Claire is Vice President for New Zealand Snowsports Instructors Alliance and former board member of Wānaka Chamber of Commerce.
CLAIRE DOONEY
Owner / Managing Director / Grant Writer
Bexs brings an ethical approach and is committed to helping businesses build and maintain positive workplace relationships. Bexs has a Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Human Resources and a minor in Accounting.
Bexs brings 10+ years of experience working for companies such as Cardrona Alpine Resort, and Donovan Group in her HR advisory role. Bexs is a member of the Human Resources Institute of New Zealand. Bexs is located in Whangārei and Rotorua.
bexs@leafcutter.co.nz
REBECCA WATERHOUSE
HR & Recruitment / Grant Writer
Monique loves the creative process and helping people find the clarity they need to communicate effectively.
With a Bachelor of Arts (Journalism), Monique is skilled at crafting content for print and digital media, and specialises in helping organisations meet their business objectives through strategic and tactical communications, proactive media engagement, thought leadership, and effective stakeholder relations.
Monique has extensive experience in the corporate, government and tertiary education sectors and has worked in a range of fields, including education, telecommunications, disability services, medicine and public health, and vocational training.
MONIQUE MAYZE
Marketing / Communications / Grant Writer
Ash is highly organised, creative, and detail oriented. With a wealth of experience in administration, operations, and project management, Ash is a whiz at streamlining systems and processes, ensuring everything runs like a well-oiled machine in record time.
Certified in Xero and proficient across a plethora of platforms including Henry, Reckon, MYOB, and Quickbooks, makes her a versatile asset to any team. With Ash on board, you can trust that your tasks will be completed with precision and flair. Ash is located in Nelson.
ASH COWPER
Admin / Bookkeeper
Mel is an accomplished bookkeeper and business administrator, holding a New Zealand Certificate in Business (Accounting Support Services), along with a Certificate and Diploma in Business (Administration and Technology). Mel is Xero Advisor, Associate and Payroll certified. Eager to expand skills and networks, Mel approaches tasks with enthusiasm and a positive outlook. With an outgoing nature, Mel believes in fostering positivity not only in the workplace but also within the community, embodying a commitment to learning and connecting with others. Mel is located in Blenheim.
MEL BENSEMAN
Bookkeeper / Admin
Sharon brings over 30 years’ experience in accounting, bookkeeping and financial management across Australia and New Zealand. Known for her strong attention to detail and practical approach, she helps businesses stay organised, compliant and in control of their finances.
Based in Wānaka, Sharon is the co-founder of Big Fig, where she managed finance, payroll and cashflow for one of the town’s busiest eateries. She has also worked in public practice as an accountant and Xero trainer, and is reliable, patient and focused on making financial systems work smoothly for her clients.
Sharon Lahood
Bookkeeper / Accounting Support
Michelle is honest, practical, and a self-manager. A wizard with numbers, she has an extensive background in accounts, bookkeeping, and office management.
Michelle is a certified Xero Associate (Level 1) and Xero Professional (Level 2), and is also a member of the Institute of Certified New Zealand Bookkeepers. Her experience extends across a range of accounting software, including Xero, MYOB, Reckon, and QuickBooks.
Sit back and relax while Michelle takes the fuss out of finance. With a keen eye for detail and a practical approach, she helps businesses stay on top of their numbers and focus on what they do best. Michelle is based in Hāwea.
Michelle Edwards
Bookkeeper / Payroll
Amanda is a dynamic professional with a Bachelor of Commerce and Administration (Accounting) and extensive experience in financial and management accounting.
With a proven track record across various industries, including public practice, real estate, retail and tourism, Amanda excels in providing tailored financial solutions. She thrives on collaborating with business owners and managers to optimise financial performance and ensure compliance. If you're looking for a strategic financial partner, Amanda is ready to make things happen. Amanda is located in Wānaka.
Amanda Richards
Bookkeeper / Payroll
Juliette loves working with clients to maximise the success of their digital marketing. Never short of something to say, she enthusiastically creates meaningful content for websites and social media.
Juliette holds a Bachelor in Business Studies and a Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing. Juliette holds a Certificate in Proofreading and Editing and a Certificate in Social Media Strategy. Juliette is located in Auckland and Wānaka.
JULIETTE RICHARDS
Digital Marketing / Copywriter
WE ARE LOOKING TO EXPAND OUR TEAM.
Are you our next contractor?
Please complete the contractor application
WE WORK WITH
Sidekick Chartered Accountants
Mat Prichard is our preferred Chartered Accountant and Director of Sidekick Chartered Accountants. Mat works closely with business owners to understand their goals, challenges, and what success looks like for them. With a strong background in accounting, business advisory, and commercial leadership, he provides practical advice that helps businesses make informed decisions and achieve sustainable growth.
Mat and the Sidekick team are known for their approachable style, clear communication, and practical advice. Their services include annual accounts, tax compliance, GST returns, management reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cashflow planning, Xero support, and strategic business advice, helping business owners make confident decisions and focus on growth.
Todd & Walker Law
Robbie Bryant and the team at Todd & Walker Law are our preferred legal partners. Robbie specialises in employment law and health and safety, supporting businesses with everything from employment agreements and workplace policies to restructures, disciplinary processes, investigations, and dispute resolution. His practical approach helps clients navigate employment matters with confidence and minimise risk.
Robbie and the Todd & Walker team provide trusted legal advice that is practical, responsive, and commercially focused. Their services include employment law, health and safety, commercial law, property, litigation, trusts, and legal advisory services, helping businesses manage risk, resolve issues early, and navigate complex situations with confidence.
WHY LEAFCUTTER?
We believe business success is built on strong foundations - support, connection and trust.
Our vision is simple - to empower you to focus on your passion and innovation, while we shoulder the day-to-day operations. We see a world where organisations and business owners have the freedom to create, grow, and lead, knowing they have a steadfast partner in their corner.
Here’s what guides us:
1. Comprehensive business support
We offer a full suite of tailored business solutions, so you can access what you need, when you need it - all in one place.
2. Empowerment through experience
Our team brings real-world expertise across all areas of business support. We equip you with the confidence, clarity, and tools to make smart decisions and unlock your full potential.
3. Client-centric, always
We build strong partnerships, taking the time to understand your aspirations and challenges. Every solution we create is aligned to your goals and values.
4. Innovation with purpose
We keep ahead of industry shifts and technology, but always with a purpose, helping your business run smarter, not harder.
5. Focused on growth
By lightening your operational load, we give you back the space to focus on what matters. Strategic growth, creativity, and impact.
6. Grounded in values
We operate with integrity, care for our community, and a commitment to sustainability. Our success is measured by yours and the positive ripple effect we help create.
LEAFCUTTER ANT
We named our business after the mighty Leafcutter ant, one of nature’s strongest creatures relative to its size. These small but powerful ants can lift up to fifty times their own body weight. Just like them, we believe small teams (and businesses) can achieve big things!
At Leafcutter, we work alongside you, doing the heavy lifting behind the scenes, so you can stand tall and thrive. Because great things are built through focus, resilience, and a little bit of grit, values we proudly share with the Leafcutter ant.