Founder Kate reached a point where incorporating and moving into a more formal business structure required more than basic accounting software could offer. Rather than stitching together multiple tools and paying separately for an accountant, she wanted everything in one place.
“One of the biggest reasons I chose Afirmo was that it includes the accountant. All my GST returns, income tax returns, and everything like that is included. It’s like a bundle deal.”
The transition was straightforward. Kate says moving from her previous system to Afirmo was quick and well-supported, with questions answered within minutes — something she found especially reassuring during the incorporation process.
Since switching, the biggest time-saver has been automated bank transaction matching and the simplified GST return process.
“The automatic tax returns and GST returns make life so easy. It gets done for me, and I just get sent the amount I need to pay. That’s all I have to do.”
Kate also values having a local support team that understands the New Zealand tax system and responds quickly.
“The New Zealand support is right there. Emails get responded to almost immediately, and they really understand small businesses here.”
For other business owners weighing up whether to improve their systems, Kate’s advice is simple: “Just jump into it. You never know what will happen.”
Valley Swim School’s experience reflects what Afirmo was built to deliver — less admin, more confidence, and more time to focus on the business itself.