Meet the team: Erica Eddowes
Meet Erica. She is an Assistant Accountant at Ōmokoroa Accounting and has been a valuable member of our team for over two years. Her role involves preparing financial reports and tax returns for our numerous clients. When she’s not working, she can be found being a “mum taxi”, playing tennis, or pursuing her “new passion” for art.
1. What was your background/experience before joining Ōmokoroa Accounting?
I’ve been working at Omokoroa Accounting and in this position for two and a half years. I decided to re-study and complete my Bachelor of Business – Major in Accounting degree in 2021. However, I trained in hotel management and initially worked as a reservations and as a front office manager in large hotels in Wellington. I travelled and worked in London for over 15 years working in numerous creative and corporate environments from Warner Bros., to research and data analytics at KPMG. Returning to New Zealand in 2013 with our twin toddlers we found our way to the lovely Te Puna/Ōmokoroa area.
2. What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy the variety of industries our clients work in (we live in a very talented community). I enjoy having a job that uses the knowledge I gained from my accounting degree and past job experience, but allows me to continue learning. I’m also very lucky to work with a great group of intelligent and fun (accountants aren’t boring!) people!
3. What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Presenting in front of a room full of over 50 International senior KPMG partners at a conference in Frankfurt was something I was very nervous about, but I was really pleased that I managed to not fall flat on my face and also retain their interest! I’m also proud that I successfully obtained my accounting degree later in life whilst managing an orchard, young children, and COVID-19 interruptions.
4. What’s the best piece of advice you would give a client considering accounting services?
Using an accountant means you can have more time to focus on your business and what you do well. However, it is still important to ensure your record-keeping is tidy and as error-free as possible. For example, Xero is a great tool, but it still requires accurate input to be financially and strategically beneficial. Ask a question before you try to do something in software that you are not sure about - it will save time and money in the long run!
5. Outside of work, what are some of your interests and hobbies?
When I’m not a taxi service around Tauranga for kids' activities, I really enjoy playing tennis. I’m not at all arty but I’ve just agreed to join an (informal) art club – I’m sure there will be wine?!
6. What’s something that most people might not know about you?
I’ve done two bungee jumps and mountain biked down ‘Death Road’ in Bolivia known as the world’s most dangerous road – and I’m still scared of heights!!
