Meet Andrew Foote; Andrew's story is as dynamic as they come; he isn't just your run-of-the-mill Chartered Accountant (although he does excel at that too). Keep reading to find out more! ….

Proudly, locally born and bred, Andrew spent his younger years immersed in the farming communities of Waikaretu and Pukekawa within the Franklin District.

In the early '90s, fuelled by a thirst for adventure and a love for rugby, Andrew ventured beyond the shores of New Zealand to Northern Ireland and London. There, amidst tackles on the rugby field and numbers on spreadsheets, Andrew found his passion for helping businesses grow and succeed, plus he was starting to miss the simple country life in Pukekohe.

Andrew came back to New Zealand in ’98 and was made Director at Hunter Withers in 2008. Fast forward to today, under Andrew's leadership, Hunter Withers has flourished into a thriving enterprise, boasting a team of over 16 staff and a service portfolio that extends far beyond mere compliance work.

Andrew's day-to-day involves everything from creating business plans, assisting with business succession to typical annual tax compliance, with a healthy dose of client meetings and staff management. But what truly drives him is witnessing the growth and success of the businesses he serves. As he aptly puts it, "Every day brings new challenges, but witnessing businesses flourish makes the journey truly rewarding."

When he's not crunching numbers or strategising for the future, Andrew is a devoted family man and a dedicated rugby enthusiast. With two daughters and a loving wife, his weekends are filled with cheers from the sidelines of netball, rowing, and football matches. And let's not forget his ongoing passion for rugby, evident in his involvement with the Counties Manukau rugby board.

As for the future of accounting, Andrew sees endless possibilities, especially with the rise of AI. "It won't replace human interaction," he assures us, "but it will revolutionise efficiency and expand the scope of services we offer."

And what sage advice does this seasoned professional have for business owners eyeing retirement? "Start planning NOW," he emphasises. "Early communication and alignment of visions are key to a smooth transition."

Thank you, Andrew, for sharing your wisdom and infectious enthusiasm. Your dedication to both your craft and your community is truly commendable. And yes, go Counties Manukau!