How to set up a Websta profile as an accountant in New Zealand

What sections and content to add to your profile

Your Websta profile should have a clear description of what you do. For accountants in New Zealand, this means stating whether you work with small businesses, individuals, sole traders, or specific industries. Include the types of work you handle: tax returns, payroll, bookkeeping, financial statements, GST returns, or business advice.

Add a photo of yourself or your workspace. For professional services like accounting, a professional headshot or a photo of your office helps people know who they are contacting. Keep photos clear and current.

List your services with brief descriptions. Do not describe pricing on the profile itself. Instead, use the booking or quote request feature to let clients contact you about fees. This approach works better for accounting because rates vary by client and job complexity.

Include your location or the areas you cover. Since you work across New Zealand, mention whether you work nationwide, in specific regions, or only online. Some accountants work entirely remotely, which you should state clearly.

Add opening hours if you work set days or times, or note that appointments are by arrangement. For accountants, this matters because busy seasons affect availability.

• Professional photo of yourself or workspace
• Description of your accounting experience and qualifications
• List of services: tax, payroll, bookkeeping, GST, financial statements, business advice
• Geographic coverage: nationwide, regions, or remote only
• Hours or note that you work by appointment
• Contact form or online booking link on the profile

How people in New Zealand search for accountants

Accountancy clients in New Zealand typically search in two ways. They use Google or other search engines to find 'accountant near me' or 'accountant [town]', and they use business directories and marketplaces. Websta operates a marketplace where people nearby can find you by service and location.

On Websta, clients browse the accountants category and filter by their region. They may also post a task describing their need - for example, 'I need help with my tax return' or 'I need bookkeeping for my small business' - and providers including you can make offers. The marketplace is not the only way people find accountants; many search Google or ask for referrals. A Websta profile helps when people search, because it gives you a professional page and puts you in the marketplace where local clients look.

Languages to publish in

Publish your profile in English. English is the standard business language in New Zealand. If you speak te reo Maori or another language fluently and want to serve clients in that language, you can mention this in your profile description, but the main profile should be in English so clients can find and read it easily.

What to check with local authorities before you start

Before you list yourself as an accountant in New Zealand, check what qualifications and registrations the law requires. The Institute of Directors, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ), and the Accounting Standards Review Board set standards, but you should confirm your own standing with them. If you hold practising certificates or memberships, this strengthens your profile.

Check with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) about your own tax obligations if you are self-employed. You will need an IRD number and must register for GST if your turnover exceeds the threshold. These are not Websta requirements, but they affect how you operate as an independent provider.

If you work with sensitive financial data, check privacy and data security requirements under the Privacy Act. Websta uses Stripe for payments, so card details are handled by Stripe, but you should know your own data responsibilities.

Confirm that you can legally operate from your location - for example, if you work from home, check whether your lease or local council rules permit business activity.

How booking and payment work on Websta

Websta allows clients to book a time with you or request a quote. For accountants, a quote request often makes more sense than a booked slot, because the work depends on the client's situation. When someone requests a quote through your profile, you can discuss the job, your availability, and your rate before confirming.

Payments come through Stripe to your own bank account. You set your own prices and rates. Websta does not take payment from clients and pass it on to you - the platform provides the profile and booking tool, and payments are between you and your client.

What to write in your first hour

Start with a short, clear description of what you do. Write one or two sentences: for example, 'I provide tax returns, bookkeeping, and business advice for small businesses and sole traders in New Zealand' or 'I work with individuals and contractors on GST and income tax.' Be specific about who you serve.

Add your location or coverage area. If you work nationwide, say so. If you focus on certain regions or work online only, be clear about that.

List three to five core services you offer. Use plain language: 'income tax returns', 'payroll', 'business bookkeeping', 'GST returns', 'financial advice'. Do not describe fees at this stage.

Upload a professional photo. A clear headshot or photo of your workspace takes minutes and makes a real difference in how clients respond to your profile.

Write your opening hours or a note that appointments are by arrangement. Accountants often work busy seasons, so being honest about when you are available helps.

Building trust on your profile

Clients hiring an accountant want to know they are dealing with someone qualified and reliable. Mention any professional qualifications, memberships, or years of experience you have. If you are a Chartered Accountant or hold other relevant credentials, this belongs on your profile.

Set clear expectations about how you work. For example: 'I respond to enquiries within two working days' or 'I work with clients who provide regular financial records.' Clients appreciate knowing what to expect.

Use the quote request feature to have a conversation before you commit to working together. This lets you understand the client's needs and confirm that you are a good fit for each other.