Tax Knowledge Bank

Common tax issues and questions

Knowledge on common tax topics we often encounter

We would like to introduce you to the “Tax Knowledge Bank”. As part of our commitment to you, we have developed a series of commentaries, information sheets and FAQs around common tax issues. It’s not about re-writing the Tax Act, it’s about providing you with a broad tax runway and guidance to confirm understanding or to maneuver away from mistakes that are commonly made.

We are here to guide and help you, but without a bit of knowledge sometimes it’s hard to know what question to ask. Tax Knowledge Bank provides you with information on tax topics that we often encounter. It will never be able to provide all the answers, and is general in nature, but exists to help steer you in the right direction; or to just quench those with a thirst for information.

Information is correct at the time of writing. Speak to your BDO adviser for the latest on any of the below topics, tax policy changes and their impacts on your business.


new zealand property ariel

The bright-line test fact sheet

The bright-line tests are just one small subset of a wide range of provisions that will seek to tax land sales. Read our bright-line fact sheet. 

Read the article here 


person using calculator at desk

GST recordkeeping is getting easier

Rozelle van Schaik, Senior Manager at BDO Auckland, considers the modernised GST rules. 

Read the article here


Tax stats, dates and rates

An essential guide to key New Zealand tax statistics and facts. 

Read the guide


When is your land sale taxable?

While New Zealand does not have a comprehensive capital gains tax system, we do have wide ranging rules that will tax land sales.

Read the article here


young corporate woman walking through city

Tax resident individuals fact sheet

A New Zealand tax resident fact sheet to help you understand how your income will be taxed if you move overseas or are returning to NZ. 

Read the fact sheet here


Tax reminders checklist

We have prepared a list of steps that you can take prior to balance date to help you maximise any tax opportunities that you’re entitled to as well as some important reminders for the tax year-end. 

Read the checklist here

handing over car keys to someone's hand

Taxing the entrepreneurial spirit – the accidental trader

Buying something with the intent to sell? Learn about how profits arising from isolated transactions and business dealings are taxed.

Read the article here 

woman at desk doing taxes

Can a company carry forward tax losses with different shareholders?

Tax losses are now effectively pegged to the business, not the shareholder. Learn about the rules referred to as the “business continuity test” (“BCT”). 

Read the article here

meeting in an office with two women on laptop

 How does New Zealand treat trusts for income tax purposes?

New Zealand trusts operate under a settlor-based regime. On a global scale, this is quite different from other jurisdictions, which tend to focus upon the tax residence of the trustees. 

Read the article here

new zealand beach

Tax residency: New Zealand transitional residency unpacked

Learn more about what it means to be a transitional resident.

Read the article here