From 1962 to What’s Next
- Ian Watson
- Mar 2
- 2 min read
Updated: 13 hours ago
Every now and then, it’s good to pause, look back at how far you’ve come, and set a clear course for what’s ahead. That’s exactly what both Nijo and I did in a recent chat of part reflection, part planning session, and fully focused on how we continue to show up for our clients in a changing world.
Modernising the way we serve (with a nod to our roots)
WLW’s been around since the 1960s, but we’ve never been content to do things “the way they’ve always been done.” Over the past few years, we’ve modernised key parts of our practice introducing digital workflows, e-signing, and consolidating client documents into clean, easy-to-follow packs. The goal? Make advice more accessible and actionable. The response from long-standing clients has been terrific, and it’s only the beginning.
Fresh energy from the Agri Business Summit
A recent trip to Auckland for the Agri Business Summit was a chance to deepen relationships, compare notes with industry peers, and see where the leading edge of advisory is heading especially for agriculture. Tools like Figured and AgriWebb continue to prove their worth for farming clients, helping turn real-time data into confident decisions rather than educated guesses. We’ve used Figured for years; now we’re doubling down on getting even more value from it and related tools so our agri clients can plan, pivot, and prosper with clarity.
Advisory-first, all year round
A clear theme from the Summit and from our own experience is that the accountant who only shows up at year-end won’t cut it anymore. Markets move. Seasons shift. Opportunities don’t wait. Yes, we’re embracing AI to streamline the routine and compliance work. But the real value is in interpreting the numbers, asking the tough questions, and guiding decisions throughout the year. That’s human. That’s relational. And that’s where WLW has always stood tall.
Building capacity to deliver more value
Over the past 12 months, we’ve focused on quality and consistency. Now we’re creating more capacity across the team so we can expand the services our clients are asking for particularly in the agri sector. Over the next 12 months, here’s what you can expect:
More proactive, year-round advisory check-ins and scenario planning
Greater leverage of Figured and AgriWebb to support live, decision-ready data
Succession planning that balances family dynamics, tax efficiency, and business continuity
Farm resilience planning that helps you manage volatility and protect long-term value
Clear, consolidated reporting packs and dashboards designed for action
Navigating intergenerational wealth transfer
One of the most important conversations we’re having with clients right now is about intergenerational wealth transfer. In the next 3 -10 years, many family businesses especially farms will change hands. Without the right planning, that transition can come with costly tax surprises and unnecessary strain.
If you have any questions about how these resources can benefit your business or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Nijo Antony
Director
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