THE MEAD STARK TEAM
OUR TEAM OF ACCOUNTANTS AND SUPPORT PERSONNEL
MATTHEW SHAND
Matthew has been a Chartered Accountant since early 2005, joining the firm in 2000 after finishing his studies at the University of Otago.
Matthew provides the firm with a wide range of skills and experience and draws on over a decade of experience in financial reporting and tax matters. He has also been instrumental in ensuring that Mead Stark is kept at the forefront of technological advances in accounting software and business administration systems. He can, therefore, advise clients on everything accounting-related, from how best to structure a business to what accounting software will be most suitable for a client’s needs.
Charged with overseeing the day-to-day running of the practice, Matthew ensures that clients receive the level of service required to stay successful in an increasingly dynamic business environment.
REBECCA HANSEN
Rebecca joined our team in 2014. She has strong family ties to the area, with her and her husband growing up in Cromwell.
Her family returned to their hometown after the Christchurch earthquakes. Rebecca has worked in accounting administration for many years in both NZ and Australia, including through a virtual office using Xero, and has achieved a Bachelor of Business (Accounting).
Rebecca is always happy to help and will be able to assist with your accounting needs. Rebecca is Xero certified and Xero Payroll certified.
TINA BATES
Tina, a longtime resident of Cromwell, has been a pivotal member of Mead Stark since 2012. Initially overseeing office administration and serving as the welcoming face for our clients at reception, Tina ensured smooth operations and excellent client relations.
She later transitioned from reception to a client support role, managing client tax obligations with the IRD and assisting with accounting software, systems, GST, and payroll needs. During this time, Tina also completed her New Zealand Diploma in Business (Accounting). She has strong knowledge in using Xero and is able to help clients with their queries.
SHARON GRANT
Sharon joined us in July 2025 to manage reception and client communications and oversee office administration. She is our friendly and helpful first point of contact to ensure our clients are directed to the right people, facilitate communications, and ensure that the office runs smoothly.
Sharon has a strong background in business operations and financial administration. Over more than 20 years, she successfully co-managed a deer transportation business alongside her husband, serving clients across the farming and business sectors.
DAVID STARK
David has called Central Otago home all his life and, having spent 6 years working in corporate finance in Auckland and London, he returned to join the firm in late 2010. His investment banking background with First NZ Capital provides the team with specialised experience in business valuations, public market investments, financial modelling and analysis and business structuring.
Several years spent at a London corporate advisory firm, Stamford Partners, have also given David a firm grasp of the key drivers of success and value in business experience that he can apply to benefit clients. David is a member of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants.
MARNIE MORTON
Marnie has been a key part of Mead Stark since 2004, taking a brief hiatus to start a family. As a native of Cromwell, she brings a deep understanding of the region, and her down-to-earth approach adds a personal touch to the office. Having previously managed clients' tax affairs with the Inland Revenue Department, she is now diligently focusing on GSTs, Wages/PAYEs, and financial compilations for our clients.
Marnie holds a New Zealand Diploma in Business (Accounting) and is an Accounting Technician and a Member of the Chartered Accountants of New Zealand and Australia (CA ANZ).
KAREN OWEN
Karen grew up and went to school in Central Otago. She has worked in several different accounting roles locally for many years; she has practical knowledge across various local industries, particularly the orchard industry.
Karen will be working with us during our busy periods of April to December and spending the rest of the year travelling in her motorhome enjoying NZ. Karen has completed her studies and received a NZ Diploma in Business Studies and Accounting.
NAILA MAGNAGO-SMITH
Originally from Brazil, Naila has lived in New Zealand since 2014 and decided to make Cromwell home. She has a degree in law and an MBA in human resources from Brazil and has worked in hospitality around Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes since moving to New Zealand.
Naila joined our team in 2023 as an Office Administrator and Receptionist, providing exceptional client support and ensuring the office ran efficiently. She has transitioned into an accounting-focused role, now assisting with client GST, PAYE, tax, and financial statement preparation.
