Padlocks, Chocolates, and Celebration!
Only NZQBA could turn an awards ceremony into something that felt part Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, part game show, and entirely unforgettable. The Bookkeeping Awards 2025, announced live at Bookkeeper Bootcamp, celebrated the incredible talent, innovation, and heart that New Zealand Bookkeepers bring to their work every day – with a little added fun (and sugar).
Meet the 2025 Finalists
Let’s give a round of applause to this year’s outstanding Bookkeepers and Bookkeeping businesses who made the finals. Each represents excellence, integrity, and the spirit of community that defines our profession.
Bookkeeper of the Year Finalists
Recognising individuals who show exceptional technical skill, client care, and commitment to professional growth.
Bookkeeping Business of the Year Finalists
Celebrating businesses that demonstrate innovation, growth, and a positive workplace culture while delivering exceptional service.
The Chocolate Bar Challenge
To announce the Bookkeeper of the Year, we took inspiration from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Each finalist received a chocolate bar, but only one held the golden ticket revealing the winner.
As the crowd counted down, the tension rose (and maybe a few bars were taste-tested for “quality assurance”). Then came the big reveal!
Winner – Bookkeeper of the Year 2025: Mel Weston
Mel’s professionalism, genuine care for her clients, and commitment to excellence have made her a standout in the Bookkeeping community. She’s proof that hard work, heart, and a touch of humour go a long way.
The Padlock Puzzle
For the Bookkeeping Business of the Year, the finalists were handed padlocks and keys. Only one key would open the lock – and the suspense was real!
After a few clicks and possibly some playful guesses, the winning lock sprang open to reveal our champion:
Winner – Bookkeeping Business of the Year 2025: Virtual Coastie
Virtual Coastie stood out for their innovation, strong client relationships, and commitment to balancing great service with a supportive workplace culture. A huge achievement for a business that continues to lead by example.
The Missing Award (and the self-appointed winners)
There was just one tiny twist this year – no entries for Bookkeeping Employee of the Year.
So, in true NZQBA fashion, Kenn and Sandi decided to take matters into their own hands and award it to… themselves! Between padlocks, chocolate bars, and keeping Bootcamp running smoothly, we’d say it was well-deserved.
More than an Awards night
The Bookkeeping Awards 2025 were more than just trophies – they were a celebration of community, connection, and the vibrant energy that makes New Zealand Bookkeepers shine.
From laughter and learning to golden tickets and locked boxes, it reminded us why this profession is about more than numbers – it’s about people, purpose, and pride.
Looking ahead
To every finalist, attendee, and cheerleader – thank you for being part of such a special day. You make the NZQBA community what it is.
We can’t wait to see what stories, surprises, and successes Bookkeeping Awards 2026 will bring (yes, we’re already planning – and yes, chocolate may likely return).
For Bookkeepers, moments like these are reminders that you’re not alone in business. You’ve got peers, networks, and organisations like NZQBA backing you all the way. Whether through mentoring, resources, or our upcoming Bookkeepers Bootcamp Conference 2025, we’re here to celebrate your wins and support your journey.
Ready to be part of a community that gets it?
