December hits differently when you’re a Bookkeeper in New Zealand.
While the rest of the country is planning beach days, Christmas lunches, and how early is too early to open the pavlova, Bookkeepers are quietly holding everything together. Reconciling accounts. Answering “quick questions”. And reminding clients that the books don’t magically close themselves.
So, in true festive spirit, here’s a very familiar carol…
The 12 Days of Bookkeeping (NZ Edition)
On the first day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
A shoebox full of fading receipts.
On the second day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
Two bank feeds missing.
On the third day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
Three “urgent” emails.
On the fourth day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
Four GST questions.
On the fifth day of Bookkeeping…
“DOES THIS COUNT AS A BUSINESS EXPENSE?”
(Always in all caps. Always.)
On the sixth day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
Six payroll changes.
All of them “effective immediately”.
On the seventh day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
Seven missing invoices.
On the eighth day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
Eight “quick” calls.
None of them quick.
On the ninth day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
Nine bank statements.
From banks no one has heard of.
On the tenth day of Bookkeeping, my software sent me…
Ten updates.
Perfectly timed with deadlines.
On the eleventh day of Bookkeeping, my client sent to me…
Eleven last-minute queries.
On Christmas Eve.
On the twelfth day of Bookkeeping, my client finally sent to me…
A complete set of records.
At 11.59pm.
December Highlights What Really Matters
It’s easy to laugh at these moments. And honestly, humour is sometimes the only thing that gets us through December.
But behind every one of these scenarios is the same lesson: strong systems, clear boundaries, and educated clients make a huge difference.
When expectations are set early, processes are documented, and clients understand their role, December becomes manageable. Not stress-free, but far less chaotic. And that means Bookkeepers can actually take a break without worrying about what might land in their inbox while they’re away.
A Better Way Into the New Year
If this list felt a little too real, take it as a sign. Not that you’re doing anything wrong, but that you might be carrying too much on your own.
Running a bookkeeping business isn’t just about reconciling accounts. It’s about managing clients, protecting your time, staying compliant, and building a business that supports your life, not the other way around.
That’s where the right support makes all the difference.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
NZQBA exists to support Bookkeepers in New Zealand with practical education, real-world guidance, and a community that understands exactly what December feels like.
From micro-courses to member resources and shared conversations with people who get it, we’re here to help you build a stronger, more sustainable bookkeeping business.
As the year winds down, take a moment to reset. Then step into the new year supported, confident, and ready for what’s next.
Explore NZQBA membership and resources today.
