G’Day Mate: Weaver Staff Goes Abroad Part 3

This year Weaver had three senior staff members participate in the Weaver Secondment Program, two working in Australia and one in New Zealand. Learn more about Travis Nelson’s secondment experience in New Zealand below.

Name: Travis Nelson
Position: Manager, Audit, Houston
Dates: May – July 2014
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Host Firm: Staples Rodway

What have you learned as a result of the secondment experience? 

I worked on clients in different industries from my Weaver clients. I learned a different firm’s audit methodology, CaseWare and New Zealand IFRS. I really enjoyed the experience working with Staples Rodway employees and other secondees.

What was a challenge you had to overcome while being in New Zealand?

During my secondment, I had to learn different audit methodology, accounting standards, audit software, and different industries than what I was used to with Weaver. Everyone at the New Zealand firm and the other secondees in my group were very helpful.

How did the secondment benefit you and the firm?

I enjoyed living and experiencing New Zealand, and I think the opportunity is a great recruiting and retention tool for employees.

What is a local phrase or habit you picked up while there?

“Sweet as” (another way of saying “OK”) and “Good on ya” (another way of saying “good job”).

What was something that surprised you about the local culture?

Auckland had a very active central business district, “CBD”.  Everything was walking distance from my apartment, including the office, client offices and restaurants.

Name a favorite experience from the trip. 

White water rafting on a category 5 river was amazing.  We went down a 21ft waterfall in a raft without flipping over.