For many professionals, building a rewarding career often comes with trade-offs—sacrificing lifestyle for opportunity, or vice versa. But for Prasheila Ramsay, a Manager at the Queenstown office of Moore Markhams Otago, the move from Auckland to Queenstown has proven that you don’t need to be in a big city to have a thriving career in accounting.
Climbing the Ladder
Prasheila’s journey in accounting began fresh out of university in 2017 when she joined Auckland-based firm Withers Tsang. Specialising in residential property, she gained a solid foundation in tax and compliance before moving to Nexia Auckland a few years later. Looking to broaden her expertise, she then joined Gilligan Rowe & Associates, another residential property specialist firm, where she continued to refine her skills.
Over six years in Auckland, she built a strong career—but the city itself presented challenges. Increasing crime, worsening traffic, and frequent flooding were making day-to-day life more difficult. The thought of a different pace of life, without compromising on career aspirations, started to take shape.
A New Opportunity in Queenstown
By September 2023, Prasheila reached out to a recruiter with a clear goal: explore opportunities in Queenstown, but only for the right role. That’s when Moore Markhams Otago came into the picture.
The role on offer wasn’t just a change of location—it was a step forward in her career. Managing a portfolio that includes commercial property syndicates, Prasheila saw the opportunity to expand her skill set while working closely with clients in a new sector. By the end of the month, she had secured the position.
What sealed the deal? The firm’s culture. Moore Markhams Queenstown offered more than just a job—it provided an environment where open communication, team bonding, and wellbeing are prioritised. The close-knit nature of the firm means she can work directly with Director Heath Copland, enjoying an open-door policy that encourages collaboration and growth.
Living and Working in Queenstown
For Prasheila, the move has been a win-win. She’s able to apply her experience in property accounting while taking advantage of the lifestyle benefits that Queenstown has to offer. The stunning natural surroundings, a strong sense of community, and a more balanced pace of life make it an ideal place to thrive both professionally and personally.
The best part? She hasn’t had to compromise on career growth. With ambitions to expand the Moore Markhams client base in Queenstown and become the leading firm in the region, she’s looking ahead to new challenges and opportunities. The long-term goal? Progressing to Associate and eventually Director.
A Career Without Limits
Prasheila’s story is a reminder that opportunity isn’t limited to big cities. With the right role and the right firm, it’s possible to build a fulfilling career while also prioritising lifestyle. At Moore Markhams Otago, she’s found a place where she can do both.
For professionals looking for a change, the message is clear: you don’t have to live in a major city to have a great career. Sometimes, the best opportunities come with a change of scenery.