Group Photo - Sparkes Walker Chartered Accountants New Zealand

A little about us…

At Sparkes Walker, we are a small family accounting practice located in Lower Hutt. With over 1000 clients, we cater to a diverse range, from individuals with investments to companies with turnovers of up to $40 million.

Our dedicated team is committed to delivering personalised and efficient accounting services. We focus on helping you achieve your financial goals, providing expert guidance, and crafting strategic plans for growth. Contact us to experience personalised and professional accounting services.

Meet the team!

Team

Lesley Walker

DIRECTOR
Lesley, a Chartered Accountant since 1985, possesses a unique blend of academic excellence, holding degrees in Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Commerce and Administration, and a Diploma of Teaching. Commencing her career in education, Lesley transitioned in 1980, joining her father in public practice as an Accountant.
Lesley is not just about numbers; she's passionate about unlocking businesses' full potential. Known for her energetic and can-do attitude, she is widely respected for her guidance and mentorship.
Following in her father's footsteps, Lesley has built a legacy of excellence in Chartered Accountancy. Her positive approach to both business and life sets her apart. As a mentor, she shares her wealth of knowledge to inspire and guide others to success.
Beyond her professional commitments, Lesley takes pleasure in dedicating quality time to her family.
Jill Walker

ACCOUNTANT
Jill brings two decades of financial expertise to our team. A proud graduate of Victoria University with a background in English Literature, Accounting and Commercial Law, Jill recently achieved her Graduate Diploma in Chartered Accounting and is in the process of attaining full membership with Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand.
Jill's professional motivation lies in helping new businesses thrive. Outside the office, she actively contributes to the community as a volunteer for Friends of Waiwhetu Stream. As a soon-to-be third-generation Chartered Accountant, following in the footsteps of her grandfather and mother, Jill carries forward a legacy of excellence.
Beyond numbers, Jill is passionate about traveling, hiking, and indulging in a good book. She values quality time with family and friends, reflecting a harmonious balance between her professional dedication and personal pursuits.
Ben Walker

ACCOUNT MANAGER
Ben, our Account Manager with 15 years of industry expertise, is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Accountancy at Massey University to continually enhance his skill set.
Driven by a passion for helping businesses thrive, Ben brings a customer-centric approach to his role. His dedication to client success is evident in his academic achievements.
Beyond the professional realm, Ben's interests include movies, exploring new travel destinations, and enjoying quality time with friends and family.
Lisa McLennan

ACCOUNT MANAGER
Meet Lisa, our new Account Manager who joined Sparkes Walker in June 2023, infusing our team with a fresh wave of enthusiasm. With a dynamic background that spans from the culinary arts to governance roles at the Department of Conservation, Lisa's diverse expertise is a valuable addition to our organisation.
Currently pursuing a New Zealand Certificate in Business, Lisa thrives on supporting team functions and tackling challenges to make a positive impact. Her community involvement, including board membership for the Lower Hutt Women's Centre and volunteering for Eat my Lunch, reflects her passion for giving back.
Lisa takes pride in significant personal achievements, such as conquering the Outward Bound 21-Day Master Course in 2021 and, in 2022, she welcomed her daughter Evie. Beyond the office, Lisa enjoys the simple pleasures of family walks, spending time gardening, and enjoying good food with friends and family.

How it started...

After four years teaching, Lesley Walker decided to join her father in a new accountancy practice in 1980. Her father Arthur Sparkes had worked in Chartered Accountancy in Lower Hutt for over 30 years at that stage. He became a Fellow Chartered Accountant on 1 st July 1969, and received a Fifty Year’s Membership award in June 2001. In February 1985 Lesley gained her C.A. qualification and her father was very proud.

In 2006 Lesley’s daughter Jill joined Sparkes Walker. She achieved a Bachelor of Arts from Victoria University in 2008 and a Bachelor of Commerce & Administration in 2012. Jill then completed the C.A. program in late 2023.

In 2009 Lesley’s son Ben joined the firm as an assistant and worked his way up to Account Manager with many of his own clients. He is now part way through a Business degree.

Sparkes Walker is truly a family business spanning three generations and hoping to make it four generations when Lesley’s grandchildren are old enough!