livestock values – what do they mean for me? Farmers livestock often form a large part of their assets and therefore deserve consideration by owners on how to manage for the future. In May/June each year the IRD Herd Scheme values are released, and as advisors we are often asked: Are they out yet? What […]

we farewell gavin after 38 years with cooperaitken After an incredible 38 years with CooperAitken, Partner Gavin Haddon concluded his time with the firm on 31 March 2026. Gavin’s dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our clients and our people have left a lasting legacy. We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Gavin’s

introducing our new partner: louise maxwell-granich We’re excited to share that from 1 April 2026, Louise Maxwell-Granich has been appointed a Partner at CooperAitken. Louise has been a valued member of our team for the past eight years and has been Client Manager to Anna Bennett since 2021. Over this time, she has built strong, trusted relationships with

a once in a generation opportunity: making the most of the fonterra capital payment Over the coming weeks, many dairy farmers will be making decisions that could have a significant impact on how much of the upcoming Fonterra capital payment they ultimately get to keep. While the payment itself is good news, the real value

trust administration made easy: how we can support you. At CooperAitken, we understand that managing a trust can be complex, time-consuming, and often overwhelming—especially with ever-evolving compliance obligations and legal responsibilities. That’s why our well-established and dedicated Trust Division provides expert support in trust administration and management, whether or not we act as your professional

payroll and ird changes from 1 april 2026: what you need to know From 1 April 2026, several payroll‑related changes come into effect that will have a small impact on wages paid. Below is a summary of the key updates and what they mean for you and your employees. KiwiSaver Contribution Changes The default KiwiSaver

Beyond degrees: how work ethic and character help shape career success In the last year 12 months both of our children have entered the workforce and are pursuing careers which they have passion for. As parents we all know that the choice of vocations is endless. Fortunately, when our children attended college we engaged consultants

buying and selling farms Purchasing a farm is one of the most significant investments a person can make, it’s not just a financial decision, but a lifestyle commitment. At CooperAitken, we understand the complexities and opportunities that come with purchasing rural property. With decades of experience supporting the rural sector, we’re here to guide you

Important acc levy changes ACC have announced some changes in the new levy year which include some adjustments that may possibly affect you. Working Safer Levy From 1 April 2025, Working Safer levies for all CoverPlus Extra policyholders will be calculated based on the level of cover rather than liable earnings which has been the

Fonterra’s Big Sale: How it could impact your farm plans After further communications with Fonterra, we have updated our recently released article on 24/10/2025 to clarify the position with the proposed capital payments. Fonterra has recently announced the proposed sale of their consumer brands businesses to Lactalis, a French owned multinational dairy company.  The divestment