Charitable Trusts & Non-Profits

Clear, practical accounting for charitable trusts and community organisations

We provide specialist accounting for charitable trusts and non-profit organisations across New Zealand, helping boards and trustees meet their financial and compliance obligations with confidence. Our team works with charities, incorporated societies, and community organisations to deliver clear, reliable reporting and practical advice.

Our Accounting for Charitable Trusts Services

Our tailored accounting for charitable trusts and non-profits includes:

Preparation of annual financial statements for charitable trusts and non-profit organisations
Charity returns and ongoing Charities Services compliance reporting
Support with XRB charity reporting standards
Board and trustee financial reporting and budgeting
Cashflow forecasting and financial planning for long-term sustainability
Payroll, GST, and tax compliance where required
Practical advice for trustees managing charitable trust responsibilities

FAQ's

What is accounting for charitable trusts?

Accounting for charitable trusts involves preparing financial statements, meeting Charities Services requirements, and ensuring compliance with NZ reporting standards.

Do charitable trusts need to file annual returns in NZ?

Yes, registered charities must file annual returns with Charities Services, including financial statements prepared under XRB standards.

What reporting standards apply to charities in New Zealand?

Most charities must follow XRB charity reporting standards, depending on their size and structure.

Supporting Charitable Trusts and Community Organisations

We understand the responsibilities that come with managing a charitable trust or non-profit organisation. Our approach to accounting for charitable trusts focuses on:

Clear, plain english financial reporting
Supporting trustees to meet legal and reporting obligations
Ensuring compliance with Charities Services and IRD requirements
Providing financial clarity to support better decision-making

We take the complexity out of charitable trust accounting, so trustees and committees can focus on delivering meaningful outcomes for their communities.

More support when you need it.

We have been with Shepherd Hensman since we first started out in business in 2002 and they have been there with advice and support as our business has grown and especially as accounting technology has advanced. Our involvement in the live Beta testing, made possible through Shepherd Hensman, of the new MYOB Account Right software, has made transitioning to the latest technology seamless, and their approachable, friendly team are always on hand if questions arise

Marcelo Nunez & Emma Lowe

Wright Wool is a successful wool brokering business in Waipukurau serving the wider Hawkes Bay. We are passionate about our industry and work very hard to ensure our clients receive the highest standard of service. We also insist that our service providers are of the highest calibre and Shepherd Hensman Ltd fit very easily into this bracket. We have enjoyed a fantastic working relationship since we bought into this business. They have helped us develop our business into what it is today. Their staff are always friendly, polite and respectful. They speak in a language we can all understand and they even have a sense of humour! I would encourage any business to employ the services of SHCA as they will be assured of excellent, reliable and honest advice.

Philippa Wright Limited

I am thrilled to share our experience with Shepherd Hensman, our trusted accounting partner. Their exceptional expertise, coupled with their in-depth understanding of tax intricacies, has been an invaluable asset to me. Their team's professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to our financial well-being truly set them apart. With Shepherd Hensman by our side, we receive top-notch financial guidance but also found incredible value for my money. I can confidently say that they have exceeded our expectations, making them an essential partner for anyone seeking expert accounting services.