While inflation pressures and tight operating conditions continue to challenge many organisations, forward-thinking businesses and their advisers are discovering that smarter tax management can provide a genuine competitive advantage. Matt Edwards, CEO of TMNZ, shares how tech-driven tax management is helping businesses not just survive but thrive this year.

What’s your business outlook for 2026?

There’s a sense of cautious optimism. Businesses have been through a tough period, but we’re seeing many emerge more resilient. The practices performing well are those investing with a view to the future. They’re not just cutting costs – they’re strategically reinvesting in tools that deliver genuine efficiency and growth gains. Tax compliance is often overlooked, but it’s an area where the right solution can free up significant time through flexible tax payment products.

How can active tax management drive business growth?

Income tax payments often challenge accountants. I see a lot of reactive behaviour when there is an unpaid tax liability, but this is the result of not enough forward planning. Technology can help – for example, our digital dashboard consolidates all provisional and terminal tax payment dates in one view. This means accountants have the full picture to confidently suggest flexible tax payment arrangements to suit their clients’ cash flow requirements.

What has changed in how businesses approach tax payments?

The short answer to this question is, not enough. I believe many businesses still view their tax liabilities outside of their operational and cash flow planning. This doesn’t make sense to me.

Progressive practices are leveraging technology to automate routine tax calculations and tracking deadlines for filing and tax payments, so they can avoid the operational overhead and admin burden.

What should be a priority in 2026?

Three things: automation, visibility and client communication. Automate what you can – from provisional tax calculations to tax finance quotes and payment instructions. Gain complete visibility across your client portfolio so nothing falls through the cracks. And use the time saved to communicate with clients about cash flow.

How can businesses optimise their tax payments position in 2026?

Ask your accountant how they’re using technology to stay on top of your obligations and identify opportunities. The businesses that will succeed in 2026 are those working with advisers who can provide timely, strategic tax planning – ensuring easy compliance. Smart tax management isn’t about spending more time; it’s about using the technology to do the work for you.

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TMNZ is CA ANZ’s Tax Pooling Partner in New Zealand. To find out more about TMNZ’s tax payment solutions, click here.