At Graham Brown & Co,
our relationships go beyond business.

Debbie Gisby

Director

BBus, PGDipAcc, CA

Debbie joined Graham Brown & Co in 2001 under the guidance of co-founder Ros Brown and became a Director in 2009. Since then, she has played a key role in the firm’s growth, leading the expansion into Tokoroa in 2011 and helping develop the practice into a 45-strong team.

Raised in the Waikato, Debbie originally pursued travel and hospitality roles in London before returning to New Zealand in 1995. After running her own successful retail ventures, she formalised her accounting career by completing a business degree at Massey University while raising three children. She went on to qualify as a Chartered Accountant through CAANZ.

For Debbie, accounting has always been about people first. She thrives on building strong client relationships and supporting staff to achieve their goals. Her work increasingly extends beyond compliance into strategy, governance, and succession planning, where she brings a practical, people-centred perspective.

Community involvement is another cornerstone of her career. Debbie actively contributes her skills as Treasurer for the Breast Cancer Research Trust, the Op Shop for Breast Cancer, Tauranga Dance Incorporated, and the South Waikato Dance Festival. She also leads Graham Brown & Co’s commitment to providing pro-bono services to charities and community initiatives, embedding social responsibility into the firm’s culture.

When not working, Debbie enjoys gardening, spending time with her golden retriever Luna, and pursuing a long-held goal of becoming a licensed pilot.

Brendon Hunt

Director

BMS, CA

Brendon Hunt joined the firm in 1994 and is well known for his easy going, warm and practical approach.

He is a familiar face in the community and has many years’ farm accounting and general taxation experience, working extensively with rural based clients.

Phillip Price

Director

BBus, CA

Phillip Price joined the firm in 2004 and has many years corporate experience and an in-depth knowledge of restructuring and tax – both in the commercial and primary sectors.

Phillip works extensively with equity partnerships and is involved at an advisory board level with clients on an as-needed basis.

Jasmine van Heuven

Director

BMS (1st Class Hons), CA

Jasmine van Heuven took on Directorship in 2015, graduating from Waikato University with first class honours in 2012. Jasmine has extensive experience in the farming industry both through her professional involvement and family farming enterprises.

Timatanga Smith

Director

BAcc, CA

Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Te Arapohatu te maunga
Ko Waihou te awa ki rere atu ki Hauraki
Ko te Kaokaoroa o Patētere te whenua
Ko Raukawa te iwi
Ko Ngāti Kirihika te hapu
Ko Te Omeka te marae

Timatanga has been with Graham Brown & Co since 2009 and was appointed a Director in 2023. Born and raised in Putāruru,Timatanga is a proud local and a family man. His wife is a registered nurse working in the South Waikato and together they have three daughters.

Timatanga joined Graham Brown & Co as an apprentice, straight out of Putāruru College and honed his accounting and leadership skills over 14 years in the business, before taking on his directorship.

Known for his problem solving skills, Timatanga specialises in project design, implementation and management and has spent much of his career working closely with our larger XERO and APS clients to support their customisation and compliance needs. He hopes to inspire future talent to the company by encouraging other school leavers to follow in his apprenticeship footsteps.

“We place huge value on culture here at Graham Brown & Co. For us, accountancy isn’t just about numbers. We celebrate personal milestones and invest in our people and we extend that same care and interest to our clients too. We really consider ourselves one big family and I love that about us.”

Outside of work, Timatanga assists multiple not-for-profit and community groups, including local iwi and hapu, and also leads several large community engagements for the firm.

He is on the Boards of the Upper Central Zone Rugby League and Putāruru Primary School and likes to spend his free time travelling with his family and skiing every winter.

Richard Rutgers

Chief Executive Officer

Richard is a seasoned professional with a strong affinity for numbers, initially drawn to Graham Brown & Co by his innate interest in accounting and client management. Over the course of three decades, he has risen through the ranks, culminating in his appointment as Practice Manager and later CEO in 2018. Richard thrives in settings marked by teamwork and empathy, values he actively fosters within the firm.

Beyond the office, Richard finds fulfilment in his roles as a devoted husband, father to four grown children, and doting Opa. An avid traveller and mountain biking enthusiast, he enjoys the time spent with family and friends in a relaxed social environment or navigating trails throughout NZ with his biking companions.

Julie Still

Accounting & Client Management

Julie is often referred to as the “camp mother” of the office, a title that reflects the way she naturally looks out for others. Being at Graham Brown & Co for over 30 years, Julie has shaped the firm’s future through her mentorship. As a Client Manager and our go-to ‘Trainer’— she combines technical skill with compassionate leadership, empowering both clients and colleagues to succeed.

Julie has built long-standing relationships with clients, with many seeing her as an extension of their own business. Julie prefers picking up the phone, believing that real conversations lead to a better understanding of what clients truly need. Julie is wonderful at explaining the reasoning behind things, helping people build confidence and a deeper connection to what they are doing.

Outside of work, Julie has been the Treasurer of the Arapuni Bowling Club for over five years. When she’s not at the office or the bowling green, you’ll likely find her in the garden, bringing the same patience and care to her plants as she does to those around her.

Kimberley Crocker

Accounting & Client Management

BMS

Linda Carr

Accounting & Client Management

Linda contributes over 30 years of accounting expertise to the Graham Brown & Co team. She thrives on strengthening client’s confidence in their decisions so they can take ownership of their work, in a way that makes them feel good about themselves. The very first day GST was introduced in New Zealand, Linda’s accounting journey began! Originally exploring a path in banking, she quickly discovered her love for numbers and solving complex problems which lead her to her current role.

Alongside supporting her clients, Linda also supports our reporting and workpaper software development. She loves working one on one with clients and the team alike, to further their knowledge and understanding – whether assisting with software solutions, training on online cashbooks, or guiding clients through their individual challenges.

Outside of the office, Linda enjoys spending time with family, traveling, going on walks and taking to the road on anything with two wheels. A keen gardener and DIY enthusiast, Linda’s creativity and hands-on approach carry over into every aspect of her life.

Julie Gray

Accounting & Client Management

Julie is an approachable professional with a passion for numbers and a love for farm life. Working alongside more than 200 farming clients, for more than 20 years, Julie offers more than just expertise; she provides the kind of consistency and continuity that her clients appreciate in an ever-changing industry. Her commitment to excellence is matched only by her welcoming personality, making her a trusted advisor, and Client Manager in our team

Whether her clients are navigating routine matters or more challenging times, Julie ensures that her clients receive the best of both worlds—individual attention backed by a wealth of knowledge.

Julie also loves spending time with family and working on her property, where she gets to enjoy the outdoors and connecting with her animals. It’s in these quiet moments that Julie finds the balance that fuels her professional drive.

Arnel Rutor

Accounting & Client Management

BBus (Accounting)

Arnel’s journey into accounting is as diverse as it is impressive. With over 30 years of experience spanning multiple industries and countries, Arnel’s expertise is vast; including bookkeeping, financial reporting, analysis, taxation, and audit. Arnel began his career as a staff auditor at PwC Philippines before dipping his toes into other industries; as a financial analyst in real estate, divisional accountant in a government department, and was even a ship accountant aboard a floating casino in the USA.

Arnel’s committed to delivering a top service to his clients and his depth of experience means he is also a huge support to the team. He is currently working now towards his Chartered Accountant certification, of which he has received several commendations from the Institute. Whether assisting with complex financial challenges such as foreign investment funds, not-for-profits, or company consultations, Arnel’s clients know they can rely on his expertise and integrity.

Outside of work, Arnel treasures time with his family and has a passion for travel, squeezing time for both of these in as much as possible.

Carol Bovey

Head of Accounting

BBus (Accounting), CA

Carol’s journey into accounting was driven by her desire for a challenge and her passion for helping others. Her approach to accounting has always extended beyond numbers, and she strives to tailor her service approach to meet individual needs; whether that’s empowering clients to self-manage their finances or offering comprehensive support to give them one less thing to worry about.

In addition to her client management role, Carol heads up our Accounting Team, providing professional support and overseeing training and development across our three offices. She is a Chartered Accountant and also has a background in IT support and training – which has provided her with a unique and valuable skillset.

Outside of work, Carol is a dedicated Judo coach at the Tokoroa Judo Club. Whether she’s supporting a client, a team member or coaching a young athlete, Carol perpetuates her values of growth and community in everything she does.

Leo Hu

Accounting & Client Management

BCom

Leo has always had a knack for numbers, leading him to study a Bachelor of Commerce at Victoria University, majoring in Accounting and Money & Finance. While his original plan was to follow a family path into the world of banking, a friend’s suggestion to try accounting sent him on a different journey, kick-starting the career he enjoys today.

Leo joined Graham Brown & Co in 2011, leading him to work towards further certification.

Leo leads the XERO specialist team, providing a wealth of experience across complex tasks. He also supports a group of commercial, not for profit and charitable entities with their accounting and business advisory needs. Known for his straight shooter approach, Leo is an integral part of the team, supporting the next up and coming XERO experts and the team with special projects, complex reporting and other tasks as they arise.

Leo lives in Tauranga with his family, where he enjoys playing sports with his son, bush walks and relaxing at the beach.

Aliesha Watene

Accounting & Client Management

Aliesha joined Graham Brown & Co in 2022, bringing with her 14 years of extensive knowledge in accounting. Aliesha’s wealth of experience, genuine care, dedication and adaptability allow her to work with a variety of clients, tackling their individual challenges head on. Aliesha takes pride in making accounting easier to understand, by explaining technical financial concepts clearly. Aliesha’s calm, humble and approachable demeanour make her a pleasure to work with.

Outside of the office, Aliesha dedicates her time to her three children—Tia, Cruz, and Ryah—who keep her busy with sports and family adventures. Having stepped away from competing in squash to a high level to focus on work and her family, Aliesha is now back and enjoys both playing and coaching at the local squash club.

Joshua Oakes

Accounting & Client Management

BBA

Meg Hamley

Accounting & Client Management

Meg always felt a pull to accounting, leading her to pursue a Bachelor in Accounting which she is currently completing. Her pathway with GBC started in the administration team – however her desire to learn new things, and her calm and considered approach to problem-solving soon led her to accounting and she now supports clients directly in a Client Management role.

Meg’s collaborative nature and people first approach is evident in the way she engages with others. She supports the Graham Brown & Co team directly in a number of ways, assisting with Accounts conversion work for new clients, and other software and related project work as required.  

Outside of the office, Meg loves staying active, and is an enthusiastic traveller, runner, and loves reading a good book at the beach.

Anne Barrow

Accounting & Client Management

Raised in a farming family, Annes first-hand exposure to farming has developed her invaluable understanding of agricultural business, providing her with a unique perspective for farming clients extending beyond just the numbers. Her knowledge, combined with a natural inclination to help and support others on their journey, has also drawn her into a training role, where she is one of the team mentors responsible for nurturing and developing Graham Browns Accounting Apprentices.  

Anne combines her client management support and mentorship roles, with studying towards her formal degree in Accounting. Building trust and meaningful relationships with both colleagues and clients is important to Anne, and these values also shine through in her personal life.

When Anne isn’t working, she loves exploring New Zealand’s great outdoors, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Isaac Smitth

Accounting & Client Management

A love of problem-solving, numbers and a fascination with the complexities of tax led Isaac to pursue a career in accounting. Alongside the practical skills he has developed, he is also working towards his formal qualification in a Bachelor of Business. A “giver” at heart, Isaac’s focuses on lifting others up through knowledge-sharing and teamwork. Since joining Graham Brown & Co, Isaac’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning have helped him develop some fabulous advisory skills, he is a go-to for software support and investment /portfolio team tax advice, alongside his client management role.

Isaac’s strong sense of community also shows up outside of work. As a volunteer teacher and financial clerk in his local church, he takes pride in lightening the load for others, actively living the motto of giving others ‘one less thing to worry about’.

Chelsea Watkins

Accounting & Client Management

Christina McGuire

Payroll & HR Manager

Christina joined the Graham Brown & Co team in 2016, taking on the payroll team leader role in 2022. She loves making sure every business we support has a payroll system that’s efficient, compliant, and personalised. Christina’s background in managing payroll for large teams across multiple locations has equipped her with the skills to tackle a multitude of payroll challenges. Known for her down-to-earth style, Christina is dedicated to simplifying the often-complex world of payroll and employment legislation and she leads those around her with a keen sense of humor and permanent smile.

A proud mother of two busy boys, Christina has also coached and managed countless sports teams, served as a school PTA treasurer, and been a key organizer for local events. Whether she’s on the side-lines or relaxing by Lake Taupō, Christina’s values of connection, empowerment, and teamwork shine through in every aspect of her life.

Judith Matthews

Practice Manager 

CA

Judith’s role centers on enabling her team to achieve their goals while maintaining what matters most to her—a balanced work and family lifestyle.

With a strong belief that success at work should never come at the expense of life at home, Judith supports her team wholeheartedly, fostering a culture of balance, care, and mutual respect. This approach extends to her client relationships, where she is valued for genuinely caring about her clients and their families—something they deeply appreciate and respect. Judith enjoys being part of Graham Brown & Co because there is a shared understanding and perpetuation of the same values.

Outside of work, Judith is a proud supporter of her daughter’s roller derby team and most importantly, loves spending time with her grandson—especially pinching his super-cute cheeks.

Andy Nixon

Accounting & Client Management

Andy brings a calm, considered approach to client work, with a strong focus on building trusted, long-term relationships. With a background in accounting and trust services, Andy holds a New Zealand Certificate in Commerce from Waikato Polytech (now Wintec) and is a member of the Executor & Trustee Institute. He spent several years working in accounting roles within a New Zealand Trustee Company, where he developed a solid understanding of both technical requirements and client care.

Andy is known for his conscientious nature, empathy, and ability to see situations from his clients’ perspective. Positive client feedback continues to shape the way Andy works. He takes pride in being responsive and approachable, ensuring clients feel supported and confident in the advice they receive.

Outside of work, Andy enjoys time with family, reading, sport, share trading, mountain biking, and the occasional motorbike ride.

Erica Carter

Accounting & Client Management

Erica brings a unique perspective to accounting, with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Education and a genuine love for problem-solving. Her path into the profession came naturally through voluntary Treasurer and President roles, where she discovered a passion for helping others make sense of their finances. In her role, Erica provides general accounting services, including GST and annual accounts, and takes particular satisfaction in helping clients understand their business finances. She enjoys the challenge of turning complex information into clear, practical insights—something she likens to solving a puzzle. Erica values GBC’s friendly, supportive culture and its strong focus on both client care and staff wellbeing. She is especially touched when clients show their appreciation, a reflection of the relationships she builds.

Outside of work, Erica enjoys spending time with family, reading, and pottery

Joanne Sewell

Accounting & Client Management

Jo brings a strong banking and finance background to her role, with a genuine interest and natural affinity for numbers. Jo completed her Diploma in Accounting at Toi Ohomai in 2017, achieved through several years of self-motivated, part-time study.

In her role, Jo supports the team through reception and administrative duties, alongside preparing financial statements, GST returns, and payday filing. With long-standing client relationships, she offers personalised service, combining accuracy with a friendly, approachable manner and a great sense of humour—qualities clients often comment on.

Jo enjoys being part of a supportive and welcoming team and values GBC’s strong connection to the local community.

Outside of work, Jo enjoys time with family, gardening, crafts, camping, and sharing her passion for classic cars and hot rodding. Jo held the position of treasurer and co-delegate for the Rotorua area of the National Street Rods Association from 2019 to 2025.

Lee-Anne Knaggs

Accounting & Client Management

Lee-Anne works closely with her clients, helping them navigate the tax system and gain a clear understanding of their finances. She is known for going the extra mile, treating clients with courtesy and respect, and taking the time to listen—whether the conversation is about accounting or something more personal. One of her long-term clients says “If it were a currency, Lee-Anne would be worth her weight in saffron rather than gold”. No question is ever too simple or too complex, Lee-Anne is always willing to help.

Lee-Anne brings decades of experience to her role, having begun her career in the 1980s at Peat Marwick (now KPMG). After spending ten years overseas, she returned to New Zealand and re-entered the accounting profession, completing her accounting degree through polytechnic and qualifying as an Accounting Technician with NZICA.

Outside of work, Lee-Anne enjoys quilting, researching her family tree, travelling, and supporting local community groups.

Lyn Kivell

Accounting & Client Management

Tina Earney

Accounting & Client Management

Tina brings extensive experience to her role as a Senior Accountant, with a career that spans across multiple accounting firms and more than two decades working with Macmillan Accountants, prior to them being taken over by GBC. Her background has given her a strong technical foundation and a deep appreciation for the relationships built over time within the profession.

Specialising in MYOB and Xero, Tina supports clients with practical, efficient solutions, ensuring their accounting needs are handled with care and accuracy. She values a personal approach and takes pride in responding promptly to client queries—something her clients consistently appreciate.

The most rewarding part of Tina’s career has been the professional connections she’s built along the way, both within her teams and across her client network.

Outside of work, Tina enjoys walking and running, travelling overseas when she can, and spending time with her circle of friends.