Get your first season right before you even start.
Taking on your first contract milking role is a big step, and one of the riskiest decisions you will make early on.
You are committing to a contract you cannot easily unwind, taking on staff and payroll responsibilities, and managing tight cashflow margins from day one.
Most people do not get caught out because of a bad deal. They get caught out because the numbers were not properly worked through, cashflow pressure was not visible early enough, and systems were not set up properly from day one.
How I help
I work with new contract milkers before they sign and then guide them through their first season to make sure things stay on track.
It is about making the right call upfront, and staying in control once you are going.
Phase 1: Before you sign
Before you commit, I will work through whether the contract actually stacks up in practice.
Work through the financial terms of your proposed contract, what the rate and the conditions really mean for you
Build a realistic budget and cashflow forecast
Pressure test the numbers
Assess what you can safely draw
Support your bank funding conversations
Help you decide on the right structure for your situation
Outcome
You can confidently decide whether the contract is financially viable and right for you.
Investment
$800 + GST
Phase 2: Getting set up
Once you decide to proceed, I will make sure everything is set up properly from day one.
Implementing your business structure
IRD registrations for GST and PAYE (if required)
Xero setup and configuration
Guidance on setting up your business bank account
Handling your GST returns through to the start of the season
Outcome
You are fully set up and ready to operate without scrambling once the season starts.
Investment
Depending on the structure that is right for you:
$400 + GST for sole trader or partnership setup
$600 + GST for full company setup (includes Companies Office and CDD costs)
First season support
This is where most pressure builds, and where having visibility early makes the biggest difference.
This is also where most new operators either stay in control or start to feel the pressure.
I will stay alongside you through your first season so you see things coming, rather than finding out at the year end.
Monthly cashflow reporting
GST preparation and filing
Review and feedback on your records
Xero support and guidance
Check-in meetings 3 times a year
Ongoing access when questions come up
At the end of the season, this also includes:
Financial statements and tax return for the prior year
Budget prepared for the following season
Outcome
You stay in control of your cashflow and build confidence running your business.
Investment
From $450 per month + GST + software
Year 2 onwards
As your business stabilises, support becomes more focused on oversight and ongoing advice rather than hand‑holding.
GST and cashflow reporting
Ongoing reporting and review
Check-in meetings 3 times a year
Budget prepared for the next season
Annual accounts and tax
Investment
From $550 per month + GST + software
Is this right for you?
This is designed for new contract milkers who want to make the right call upfront and avoid getting caught out in their first season.
You do not need to figure this out on your own.
The best time to talk to me is before you sign. That is where I can make the most difference.
Thinking about contract milking and want to talk it through?
Get in touch for a no‑pressure conversation about your situation.
A Note from Me
I grew up on a small block, always around animals and helping out where I could. That early, hands-on rhythm shaped how I understand rural work - the pace, the pressure, and the pride that comes with it.
I’ve spent my whole career in the rural sector, from owner-operators through to a large corporate dairy group. I know the realities behind the numbers, and the responsibility that sits on your shoulders.
Steady Path exists to bring clarity, calm, and partnership to people who do real work in real communities.
Accounting & advisory services for rural & small businesses
PARTNERS
LET'S CONNECT
Merryn Telfer
hello@steadypath.co.nz
027 385 6492
Cambridge, NZ
