Backing Futures, Building Foundations

August 13, 2026

At Anthem Partners, we’re proud to back the next generation and support opportunities that help young people thrive. As accountants and advisers, we understand the value of good foundations—and over the past year, we have been pleased to support Christchurch Boys’ High School rowing and hockey through sponsorship and fundraising initiatives, made even stronger by the generosity of our clients and business network who have kindly donated goods and services. We are grateful to help bring people together to support opportunities that make a meaningful difference in young people’s lives.


Our connection with Christchurch Boys’ High School runs deep. A number of our team are current parents, our Director is a proud old boy, and the school community is strongly represented across our clients and wider business network.

 

Sport plays a big part in helping young people build confidence, resilience, teamwork, and a strong sense of belonging. With rising costs putting pressure on many families, we believe community support can make a real difference by reducing financial barriers and keeping these experiences within reach. We’re grateful to be able to help open doors to opportunities that can shape young people well beyond the season, the training ground, or the final whistle.


 

Lead Engagement Partner - celebrating a professional milestone

By Anthem Partners • June 10, 2026
We are delighted to share that Kristy Sutherland has successfully completed her Certificate of Public Practice (CPP). This is a significant professional achievement, reflecting Kristy’s high level of technical expertise, dedication to her craft, and ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for her clients. As Anthem Partners continues to grow, this milestone marks an important step forward. Kristy will now step into the role of Lead Engagement Partner for her clients, taking full responsibility for client relationship management, engagement oversight and delivery, quality assurance, and risk management. This progression not only recognises Kristy’s capabilities, but also strengthens our ability to provide trusted, high-quality advice across our client base.  Congratulations, Kristy, on this well-deserved achievement.

A night with SCAPE Public Art

By Andrew Hawkes • July 20, 2025
At Anthem Partners, we’re proud to support initiatives that reflect the heart of our local community. Recently, we had the privilege of supporting SCAPE Public Art’s latest exhibition alongside some of our valued clients — a celebration of creativity, connection, and collective purpose. The evening raised funds for the reinstatement of “Sky Lens”, a beloved piece by Cantabrian artist Neil Dawson. Originally a feature in Cashel Mall, Sky Lens was removed after the devastating 2011 Christchurch earthquake. Thank you to SCAPE Public Art for their leadership in driving this campaign, and to our clients who joined us on the night.

Unlocking Growth: New 20% Tax Deduction for Business Assets

By Andrew Hawkes • June 12, 2025
Great news for New Zealand businesses: the Government’s 2025 Budget introduces a one-off 20% tax deduction for new qualifying business assets. This initiative, known as the “Investment Boost,” is designed to stimulate capital investment, enhance productivity, and support economic growth. What Is the Investment Boost? Effective from 22 May 2025, businesses can claim an immediate 20% tax deduction on the cost of new depreciable assets that are first available for use in New Zealand. This deduction is in addition to standard depreciation allowances. For example, if you purchase new machinery for $100,000, you can immediately deduct $20,000 from your taxable income, plus the usual depreciation based on the remaining $80,000. Who Qualifies? The Investment Boost applies to: New depreciable assets used in your business for the first time in New Zealand. Imported second-hand assets that have not been used in New Zealand before. Capital improvements to existing non-residential buildings, such as earthquake strengthening. Certain land improvements and other depreciable property. Assets that do not qualify include: Residential buildings. Intangible assets (e.g., intellectual property). Assets already eligible for immediate deductions under other provisions. Notably, new non-residential buildings will also qualify, even though they have a 0% depreciation rate for tax purposes. Why It Matters The Investment Boost is expected to: Increase New Zealand’s GDP by 1% over the next 20 years, with half of that impact occurring in the first five years. Raise wages by 1.5% over the same period. Encourage businesses to invest in new capital, leading to enhanced productivity and competitiveness.  This measure is part of a broader strategy to support economic growth without resorting to broad-based tax cuts. The Government estimates the fiscal cost to be $1.67 billion per year. Important Considerations Clawback Provisions: If you sell a qualifying asset for more than its adjusted tax value, you may need to repay some or all of the deduction. Timing: The asset must be first available for use on or after 22 May 2025 to qualify. Depreciation Adjustments: The base for future depreciation deductions will be reduced by the amount of the 20% deduction. Next Steps Review Your Capital Plans: Consider whether upcoming asset purchases or capital improvements can benefit from the Investment Boost. Consult Anthem team: Ensure that your business is correctly accounting for the new deduction and adjusting depreciation schedules accordingly. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on official guidance from Inland Revenue and consult with the Anthem team to maximise the benefits of this initiative. This is a unique opportunity to reduce your tax liability while investing in the growth and efficiency of your business. If you need assistance in understanding how the Investment Boost applies to your specific situation, feel free to reach out.