Chinese IT Association NZ

Speaker Introduction
Michelle Dong, Manager at one of the Mid-Tier accounting firm, specialising in
accounting, tax, and business advisory services. She works closely with self-employed
professionals, contractors, and small business owners, helping them navigate tax
obligations, business structures, cash flow management, and financial compliance.
Michelle is passionate about making accounting and tax practical, accessible, and
relevant for business owners so they can focus on what they do best.

Session Description
Many IT professionals move into contracting, freelancing, or consulting for greater
flexibility and earning potential, but with that independence comes new
responsibilities.
This session will cover the key accounting, tax, and business fundamentals that every
self-employed IT professional should understand, including:
• Choosing the right business structure
• GST and income tax obligations
• Provisional tax and ACC
• Claiming business expenses correctly
• Managing cash flow and tax payments
• Common mistakes made by contractors and freelancers
• Practical tips to stay compliant and financially organised
Whether you're considering self-employment, have recently started contracting, or have
been running your own business for years, this session will provide practical insights
and actionable tips to help you manage the financial side of your business with
confidence.

Agenda
This meetup will be presented in Mandarin.
5:30 pm | Door opens & Networking
Light refreshments provided
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm | Presentation & Q&A
7:30 pm – 8:00 pm | Networking

📍 Location:
AUT WG801
WG Building 2 Governor Fitzroy Place, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Fee
CITA Members: Free
Other Participants: NZD $5 Donation
💳 Bank Account Details
Account Number: 06-0513-0847960-00
Account Name: CHINESE IT ASSOCIATION NZ

Speaker #1
Alex Li
With several years of experience in Android operating system development in China, Alex graduated from the University of Waikato and now works at Gallagher Security.

Topic: Job Hunting Is Hard. Now What?
Alex started job hunting in March and received an offer in May. This talk tells the story of what he experienced along the way and what he would do differently if he could start again.

Speaker #2
Alice Liu
Graduated from the University of Waikato in 2025, with six years of consulting experience in China. Currently working as a Business Analyst at Wellington City Council.

Topic: Breaking into the New Zealand Public Sector
This presentation provides practical tips for graduates and career changers seeking public sector roles in New Zealand. It explores industry opportunities, sector values, CV strategies, interview preparation, and career growth.

Speaker #3
Jinru Zhao
Studied Bachelor of Science majoring in Data Analytics at Waikato Uni, graduated in 2024. Now working as a Data Analyst at Waitomo Petroleum Ltd.

Topic: "Narrow your role, but broaden your company search." Does this sound like a paradox to you?
Instead of letting job ads determine where you look, use your ideal role to determine which companies you should be looking at. Then use AI to uncover companies and opportunities that aren't obvious from job boards.

# Agenda:
05:30 pm - 06:00 pm Registration
06:00 pm - 08:00 pm Presentation and Q&A
08:00 pm - 08:30 pm Networking

# Location:
Trust Waikato Community Centre
4 Little London Lane, Hamilton Central, Hamilton

# Admission Fee:
Free for CITA members
$5 donation for non-members
Account Number: 06-0513-0847960-00
Account Name: CHINESE IT ASSOCIATION NZ

# Notes:
It's available on Teams. Attendance in-person is recommended. Light refreshments and drinks will be provided.