EXPERIENCED ACCOUNTANTS IN DUNEDIN, OTAGO & THE SOUTH ISLAND
MEET THE TEAM BEHIND YARDLEY LO & ASSOCIATES – DUNEDIN
At Yardley Lo & Associates, we believe in more than just numbers—we believe in people, relationships, and progress. With deep roots in Dunedin and Otago, our firm has evolved from its early beginnings as Kelly & Co. into a trusted partner for individuals, businesses, and rural enterprises across the South Island and beyond.
Our experienced team brings together a unique blend of practical accounting expertise, local knowledge, and a people-first mindset. We’re not here to just tick boxes—we’re here to work with you, challenge your thinking, and help you make smart, strategic decisions.
From agribusiness and SMEs to individuals and startups, we’re proud to offer tailored accounting and advisory support backed by real-world experience and a passion for sustainable growth.
Hayden Yardley—Partner, Yardley Lo & Associates
Hayden brings creativity, energy, and a strong client-first philosophy to the Yardley Lo partnership. With a passion for helping clients succeed, he is known for building trusted, long-term relationships and acting as a true business partner—not just an accountant.
Joining the predecessor firm Kelly & Co in 2004, Hayden became co-owner of Yardley Lo in 2011. As a chartered accountant with a strong focus on SMEs and agribusiness, he draws on years of hands-on experience, including a personal background in sheep and dairy farming. This practical insight underpins his specialised knowledge in rural business and farm accounting.
Clients often say Hayden isn’t your “typical accountant.” He approaches business holistically, challenging conventional thinking and helping clients see the bigger picture. Inquisitive by nature, he’s driven to find smarter ways for businesses to grow and remain sustainable into the future.
Hayden provides comprehensive support across business planning and development, strategy, structuring, succession planning, governance, and long-term tax planning. He also advises on accounting systems and software, ensuring clients have the tools they need to make informed, strategic decisions.
His role is to ensure every client has a solid foundation of business support services while keeping a constant eye on long-term goals and sustainable success. With enthusiasm and proven business acumen, Hayden brings clarity and momentum to every project he’s involved in.
Specialities:
- Business Consulting & Strategy
- Agribusiness & Farming Enterprises
- Succession & Long-Term Tax Planning
- Business Structuring & Governance
- Independent Directorship
- Management Accounting
Alex Lo—Partner, Yardley Lo & Associates
Alex brings over two decades of experience to Yardley Lo, having started his career with the firm’s predecessor, Kelly & Co., in 1999. Gaining his Chartered Accountant qualification early in his career, Alex has since built a reputation for reliability, strong business insight, and an exceptional memory that clients value.
He has extensive experience working with small- to medium-sized businesses across Otago, offering practical advice and efficient solutions tailored to each client’s needs. Fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, Alex also supports clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds, helping them confidently navigate tax legislation, compliance, and accounting systems.
As co-owner of Yardley Lo since 2011, Alex works closely with fellow partner Hayden to ensure the firm delivers consistent, high-quality service and trusted business advice. His calm, methodical approach and deep knowledge make him a steady hand in helping clients operate more efficiently and build strong financial foundations.
Specialities:
- Taxation & Compliance
- Business Advisory & Restructuring
- Business Valuation
- Cash Flow Management
- Forecasting & Accounting Systems Implementation
Nikola Webster
Hi, I'm Nikola! As a small business owner myself, I know firsthand how much work, heart, and energy goes into making a business succeed. For many, it's not just a job—it's a dream in the making, and it often feels like a never-ending to-do list. That's why I’m passionate about helping other small business owners stay on top of the financial side of things so they can focus on what really matters.
I’ve been part of the Yardley/Lo team since 2013, and over the years, I’ve developed a reputation for being approachable, detail-oriented, and committed to making sure everything’s done right the first time. I take the time to understand each client’s unique needs and offer practical advice on cash flow, tax planning, and overall financial strategy.
When it comes to bookkeeping and accounting, I’m all about making things simpler and more efficient. I’m an expert in Xero, and I love helping clients use it to streamline their finances and make smarter, more informed decisions. Whether you’re just getting started with Xero or want to optimise how you’re using it, I’m here to guide you through it.
"Accounting isn’t just about numbers—it’s about giving you the peace of mind to focus on what you do best." – Nikola
If you’re looking for someone who really gets what it’s like to run a business—and who’s ready to take the stress out of your finances—I’d love to help. Let’s work together to make your financial life easier and more organised, from day one.
Huey Jen Yap – Chartered Accountant
Jen is a problem-solver at heart who thrives on complex challenges and the satisfaction of making the numbers work. Since joining Yardley Lo in 2014 as a graduate, she has become a chartered accountant and a trusted advisor to a wide range of small- to medium-sized businesses.
Known for her strong work ethic and attention to detail, Jen is passionate about helping clients understand their financials and tailoring processes to suit each business's unique needs. Her goal is always to go the extra mile—ensuring clients have clarity, confidence, and the support they need to succeed.
"Working at Yardley Lo feels like being part of a family. I love the passion, commitment, and drive we all bring to helping our clients every day."
Ian Clearwater
Ian joined Yardley Lo in March 2019 following 30 years working as an accountant in various roles.
Ian spent his first 14 years, following qualification, working in public practice in a large Invercargill accounting practice and dealt with clients from all over Southland.
His last 4 years there were as practice manager of that firm.
He then spent 12 years as finance director for a private company in the transport industry, which operated branches throughout the South Island.
This was followed by a short 7-year stint with a small-to-medium-sized accounting firm in Mid-Canterbury, where a large proportion of clients were farming or farm service businesses. This experience strengthened his skills as a farm accountant—something he has been able to continue with Yardley Lo.
Ian is able to bring his vast business experience to help all his clients with budgeting, management reporting, and compliance work.
His experience in industry gives him insight into what is required for the day-to-day operation of his clients' businesses and provides advice on a broad range of business and accounting services.
Lisa
Lisa joined Yardley Lo & Associates in January 2025. She grew up on a sheep and beef station on the East Coast of the North Island, moving to Dunedin to attend the University of Otago. She graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Management in 2009. After falling in love with our beautiful city, she has made Dunedin her home.
Lisa has come to Yardley Lo with experience working with Xero and other accounting programmes. She is continuing her university studies in accountancy at Massey University and is looking forward to working towards becoming a qualified chartered accountant on completion of her studies.
Tammy Jiang
Profile Coming Soon
Have questions about our team or services? Speak with us today on 03 466 5062.
