Christchurch

Cameron Robertson

Cameron is a fully qualified Chartered Accountant and has been practicing in the accounting industry since 2010. A born and bred Cantabrian, Cameron studied at the University of Canterbury and now services our local clients for Sidekick Christchurch.

Cameron has worked alongside business owners in a wide range of industries, from investment properties, to trades to professionals. Cameron draws on his vast experience in the SME environment to ensure your business is on the right track.

Cameron is a big sports lover. Apart from being a huge Warriors fan he’s also a whiz at playing both rugby and cricket, and likes to dabble in golf, cycling, and rugby league.

Lisa Adamson

Lisa our Director is a fully qualified Chartered Accountant holding a private practice certificate, and has over ten years experience working with businesses in the Medium to Large Business sector.

Lisa studied at the University of Otago to gain a BCom majoring in Accounting and minoring in Tourism. Lisa has worked with the growing Sidekick team for six years before starting Sidekick Commercial in 2019. Through some changes and opportunities, Sidekick Commercial, Sidekick Christchurch and DJCA all combined during Lockdown 2020 to create Sidekick CA. Through Crisis comes opportunity!

Lisa has a wealth of experience working with almost every industry you can think of whilst currently having a big focus with large companies in the HR, hospitality, training and construction space both locally in Christchurch and Nationwide.

A keen traveller, Lisa enjoys spending time planning her next overseas holiday (although that’s not happening for a while). Lisa spends her weekends relaxing and dining out with friends and visiting family in Whakatane or some of the other amazing places New Zealand has to offer.

Ric Thorpe

Ric Thorpe is one of the owners of Sidekick Chartered Accountancy group. Ric is one of the leads in the 20 strong Christchurch team as well as assisting the Sidekick group across the South Island, which now has offices in 8 locations and over 60 team members (with an additional 17+ overseas). Ric has been instrumental in fostering the incredible family-like team culture at Sidekick and helping grow the businesses by spreading the word of Fixed-Fee, Modern Accountancy across the country. Ric has also held  roles in governance and strategy for not-for-profit organisations, membership organisations such as the Christchurch Business Club, as well as within the Sidekick Group.

Traditionally Ric has been at the front end of Sidekick as the sales expert, building referral networks and solution partners across many industries. Since 2020 Ric has been predominantly Christchurch based (which can largely be attributed to the Covid-19 situation). Now Ric’s role is a mix between sales and consulting to small and medium businesses. Working with clients mostly to help them grow! His expertise lie in sales, establishing a strategy, pitching and most importantly, closing!

More time in Christchurch has provided a great opportunity to focus on internal projects, including team development and the SidekickTV channel, where Ric interviews local business people about a variety of hot topics in economic discourse.

A key thing for Ric is culture. If you have the right people and they all have a common purpose along with respect and love for one another, your business should thrive!

Katie Ashton

Katie, one of our friendly accountants here at Sidekick Commercial has a Bachelor of Applied Management Accounting from Ara and is embarking on her Chartered Accounting qualification this year.

Before joining Sidekick in 2018, Katie worked in Corporate Accounting in Melbourne for five years, before moving back to Christchurch to be closer to family.

Katie enjoys working closely with the Sidekick Commercial clients, and especially enjoys the satisfaction of watching them grow and develop to reach their business goals.

Outside of work Katie enjoys being active with boxing and mountain biking, traveling, going to concerts, and hanging out with friends.

Jenna Anderson

Jenna is a fully qualified Chartered Accountant, graduating from Otago University with a BCom followed by a Diploma in Accounting from Lincoln University. Jenna is one of our valued senior accountants in Christchurch and has been with the djca and now Sidekick team since 2014.

Jenna’s role involves working with a variety of SME businesses in Christchurch, with a focus on developing close working relationships with many of these clients.

When she’s not in the office, Jenna enjoys snowboarding, mountain biking and visiting family in Wanaka.

Working with Jenna, you’ll enjoy her cool, casual style combined with her attention to detail and getting things right!

Megan Power

Megan studied at the University of Canterbury, gaining both a bachelor of laws and a bachelor of arts degrees. She’s also a Chartered Accountant and has spent 20 years working in both commercial and CA sectors. She brings a wealth of experience to her new role at Sidekick!

Outside of work, Megan loves going biking and skiing and spending time with her family. She also loves travelling to new places, and hopes to be able to get out there and do it again sometime soon!

Ayumi Ogata

Ayumi graduated with a Commerce Degree from Fukuoka University in Japan in 2005, has a Graduate Diploma in Accounting from ARA and is currently studying towards becoming a Chartered Accountant. Ayumi is one of our valued Accountants and has been with Sidekick since 2012.

Ayumi has first hand experience in running her own small business and draws on this knowledge to help our clients. You’ll find Ayumi and her Yum Yum Gyoza team at the Riccarton Farmers market or catering for functions with her delicious handmade Japanese Dumplings.

Ayumi is a big fan of the outdoors, especially fishing, camping and snowboarding. Ayumi also competes in Roller Derby and absolutely loves it!

Jimmy

Jimmy is our newest intern. He is a little Jack Russell and Fox Terrier cross, and he comes into the office most days of the week with Ayumi. He is very young and a little shy.  Whilst he is still learning how to be a good office dog and greet clients, he has already got the entertaining and uplifting of his workmates sorted.

Outside of his work hours you will find him running and foraging in the red zone, hanging out with his doggy friends, and getting lots of good cuddles from his doting parents. We love having him in the office, and he never fails to brighten up our days.

Emily Roach

Emily, one of our whizz-kid accountants, joined the Sidekick team in February 2017 and boy are we glad to have her on board! Emily has been working in the accounting industry for many years, starting her career in administration at an accounting firm, and loved the work so much she worked her way up to being an accountant.

From working as an accountant at accounting firms, in the tech industry, and for a charity, Emily brings a great depth of knowledge and experience to the team. Emily has travelled through Europe, lived and worked in the UK, and is always planning the next trip, her most recent being South East Asia!

Whitney Hepburn

Whitney graduated from the University of Canterbury in 2018 with a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Accounting and Taxation, and started her career with Sidekick in 2019. She’s also starting her Chartered Accounting qualification this year.

As well as all her accountancy skills, she’s also a local Football star! She’s represented New Zealand in age group levels, and currently plays for the Canterbury Women’s team who’ve won 6 national championship titles. As both a talented Sportswoman and Accountant, she’s a great asset for the Sidekick team!

Ben Bailey

Ben joined the Sidekick team in late 2020. He studied at the University of Canterbury and graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Accounting.

After gaining Accounting experience in Canterbury, Ben spent the last 2 years over in Germany playing Rugby in the 1st Bundesliga. He returned late last year and started up here at Sidekick. In his free time, Ben enjoys getting out for a run, meeting new people, and obviously a game of Rugby!

Ben brings a wide range of knowledge and skills from his time working and travelling, and has settled in really well here at Sidekick.

Ryan Wallace

Ryan joined Sidekick in February, 2021. He has a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Financial management from Varsity college in South Africa, and did the second half of his degree via correspondence while he was here in New Zealand (graduating in 2019).

Ryan is also a top notch Cricketer and has spent the last 7 years playing cricket around the globe. He spent time in England and South Africa, before moving to New Zealand 4 years ago and he’s been here ever since! He’s also a high level Hockey player, and was in the South African U21 World Cup Hockey Squad and also plays for the Canterbury Cavaliers men’s hockey team. In his free time he loves to hit the links, go out for an early morning surf or have a BBQ with his mates.

Ryan’s a real all-rounder, and a great addition to our Sidekick team!

Josh Oquendo

Meet Josh Oquendo, one of the talented members of the Sidekick Chartered Accountants team. With over a year of experience in the audit department at Nexia, Josh has brought his skills and expertise to our firm to help our clients achieve their financial goals.

Josh is an ambitious individual who always goes the extra mile to ensure that his clients receive the best possible service. He is passionate about providing accurate financial advice and helping his clients make informed decisions about their financial future. Josh is currently working towards obtaining his Chartered Accountancy Qualifications, and he is making great progress towards achieving his goal.

When he’s not working, Josh has a number of interests that keep him busy. He is an avid DJ and enjoys spending time creating music and playing at local events. Josh also enjoys going to the gym and keeping fit. He believes that staying active is an important part of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Josh’s ability to work quickly and efficiently is one of his key strengths, and it is a valuable asset to our team. He is always looking for ways to improve his skills and knowledge, and he is committed to providing the best possible service to our clients.

At Sidekick Chartered Accountants, we are proud to have Josh as part of our team. His dedication and commitment to our clients are second to none, and we know that he will continue to excel in his role as he works towards achieving his goals. If you are looking for expert financial advice and support, get in touch with Sidekick Chartered Accountants today and let us help you achieve your financial goals.

Chelsea Buckeridge

Chelsea started her accounting career in her home town of Whanganui, where she worked at a local firm while completing her Bachelor of Business, majoring in accountancy.

She moved down to Christchurch when she has begun her career at Sidekick, with the opportunity to “work with a firm that continues to evolve from conventional accounting practices” exciting her.

In her free time, Chelsea loves keeping active, going to the beach over the summer months, attending gigs and festivals, and she’s always excited to head back home to Whanganui to visit her whānau.

Ihi McIntyre

Ihi joined the Sidekick team in early 2020. She is currently studying towards a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Canterbury.

Ihi is the newest member of our accounting team after being our receptionist for over a year.

She is originally from Blenheim but moved to Christchurch straight out of school.

In her spare time you will find her at a Crossfit gym, out shopping, studying or hanging out with friends.

Charlotte Roberts

Charlotte, our Office Manager, plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of the Christchurch office. As well as managing our internal office processes and administration, Charlotte also completes bookkeeping and payroll for a variety of clients.

Charlotte holds a degree in Travel and Tourism and has many years of front line experience. However we’re convinced her fantastic skills in multi-tasking and organising chaos must come from being a Mum to her beautiful children Riley and Tawera.

When she’s not hanging out with the Sidekick team, Charlotte enjoys relaxing with family and friends.

Ashleigh Falgar

Ashleigh, our Administration Assistant, is a key member of our team. Helping out with many aspects of administration, Ashleigh also completes bookkeeping for a variety of clients, manages the NZ Companies Office administration and provides Xero training for our Christchurch office.

Originally from Nelson, Ashleigh moved to Christchurch in 2010 and has since spent a gap year in Australia and gained some valuable experience in administration.

During the weekends Ashleigh likes to spend her time exploring local spots around Canterbury or up at the ski field on her snowboard.

Shaunagh Poutoa

Shaunagh is our friendly receptionist who’ll be greeting you when you come to visit us in the office or call us on the phone. Helping out with many aspects of administration, Shaunagh ensures all clients and staff are well taken care of.

Julie Copland

Whilst also being a Chartered Accountant, Julie has a passion for projects and improving business processes. Julie works across the Sidekick Group to find better and smarter ways to work.

After attending Lincoln University, Julie was in the New Zealand Airforce where she was a Logistics Officer, organising the deployment of both staff and equipment within New Zealand and around the world. She then moved home to Canterbury to pursue Accounting and has since had roles in a Chartered Accounting firm in Ashburton, as a Management Accountant for Ravensdown, and then more lately Midlands Apiaries.

Outside of work Julie loves playing squash and netball, travelling, and spending time with her husband Dan and son Thomas.

Vanessa Burt

If somebody asks ‘who is the best person to do this tricky job?” our answer is likely to be Vanessa.

Vanessa manages Sidekick Bookkeeping and completes clients’ various administrative duties, advises them on their tax obligations, acts as our one stop Xero help-desk and even completes the odd tax return.

Vanessa is also a qualified Gym instructor and has competed in Body Building competitions, so when she’s not at the gym teaching group fitness you will find her at home with her children Tyler, Manaia and Kobe.

Kirsten Maclean

Kirsten specialises in dispute resolution, relationship property, HR, and employment law.

A litigator with over 20 years experience in all forms of dispute resolution both here and in England, Kirsten is also a qualified and admitted solicitor on the UK Solicitors’ roll. Kirsten has appeared at all levels of courts in the civil and employment jurisdiction, including the Court of Appeal in New Zealand and junioring in the House of Lords in the UK.

Her significant expertise enables her to provide a range of advice and guidance relating to everything from all aspects of health and safety, to assisting in the prevention and resolution of employment-related issues for both employers and employees, relationship property matters and complex commercial, civil and trust litigation and disputes.

With an outstanding track record for resolving complex litigation while previously working as a partner of a medium sized Canterbury firm and the head of an employment and dispute resolution team, she ensures her client’s business is future-proofed.

Josh Wilson

Josh is a software specialist and Chartered Accountant with 14 years industry experience, and is spearheading the move to cloud-based accounting through Sidekick Cloud, launched in 2019.

As traditional, time-consuming methods of book-keeping are being challenged in the market place – especially in the highly mobile post COVID-19 economy – Josh’s passion is in the potential of real-time cloud technology and its ability to enhance business efficiency and profitability. He designs holistic business systems for his clients and has a special focus on the add-on software market.

Josh has a talent for assessing clients’ needs and ensuring he provides each business with the capability to manage their own finances through thorough training and ongoing support. He believes that this is the key to the sustainability of any new system and enjoys witnessing clients start to manage their own accounts with confidence. He is constantly learning and expanding his own knowledge in the world of add-on products for Xero users – such as WorkflowMax, Hubdoc and Unleashed – so that he can continue to offer the very best solutions for Kiwi businesses.

Dave Jessep

Dave’s spent over 20 years in accounting and he still loves coming to work every day. He founded the company back in 2006, and his infectious enthusiasm has helped him build a company of talented staff who are excited to be part of DJCA.

As you’d expect, Dave is a member of the NZ Institute of Chartered Accountants. He’s also a Mentor with the Business Mentors of NZ program, and is especially skilled at advising clients from all kinds of industries in strategy, planning, goal setting, and implementing business structures.

Dave played hooker for Marlborough Boys’ College and won the Matthews Cup for Most Outstanding Player (ahead of Anton Oliver, who was maybe 14 at the time). He now enjoys running and biking with his kids.

Paul Park

Paul is our international tax specialist who offers a unique combination of tax, legal, finance, and capital markets skills. Paul’s skills are centred around his New Zealand, UK, and international tax knowledge acquired during his 12-year career with Ernst & Young in Wellington, Sydney, London, and Christchurch.

In addition to this, he also has extensive experience in finance and treasury, derivatives and structured transactions. Since returning to New Zealand, Paul has worked with an increasing number of high net-worth individuals and private businesses, and developed significant expertise in the hedge funds sector. Paul’s range of skills and his years of experience in working with some of the world’s leading companies and financial institutions means that he is well placed to deal with the demands and planning issues of a privately owned business or family investment office.

Joseph Houghton

Joe is based in Christchurch but will be operating in the Marketing Coordinator role for the whole Sidekick group. 

Joe grew up in Auckland and Sydney but went to school in Auckland before he studied Marketing & Media at Victoria in Wellington.

Outside of work, Joe is an avid mountain biker and competes in races around the country. He also surfs and snowboards, and is excited about being able to do all of these now he’s based in Canterbury!