Meet the team at Zesty Virtual Assistants

At Zesty Virtual Assistants, we’re more than just task-doers – we’re your business partners, dedicated to supporting your growth and success. Our team brings a wealth of experience across bookkeeping, payroll, admin, CRM systems, social media, web design and business strategy. Together, we offer the expertise and reliability you need to keep your business running smoothly and moving forward.

20241125 Zesty24 1208938 scaled e1733797892816

Renee Thorstensen

Bookkeeping & Payroll

Heidi Wruck

I’m Heidi, and I know all about the ups and downs of running a business!

With almost 20 years of owning multiple businesses, I’ve faced plenty of the unexpected, from long hours to huge setbacks. That’s why I started Zesty Virtual Assistants – to offer real, hands-on support to business owners who need help with the back end of their business but don’t have time to find it themselves.

My team and I handle those core tasks like bookkeeping, payroll, social media creation, and websites, and we’re here when it feels like you’re ready to throw in the towel.

Our focus is on giving you practical, supportive help to get organised and reclaim the time you need to focus on what matters- growing your business and loving what you do.

Ready to get some weight off your shoulders? Let’s chat about how Zesty Virtual Assistants can help you!

Book a Discovery call

Business Development Mentor & Owner of Zesty Virtual Assistants

20241125 Zesty24 0968805 scaled e1733800463749
Heidi headshot png
Sarah Clarke

Bookkeeping

Xero Advisor Certified

Sarah Clarke

Hi, I’m Sarah, an experienced bookkeeping professional based in New Plymouth, New Zealand. I work with businesses to take the stress out of their finances – offering reliable, efficient, and accurate support across all areas of bookkeeping and accounts.

With hands-on experience in both Xero and Fergus, I understand the ins and outs of job management and accounting systems – giving you a smooth, integrated approach to running your business.

Here’s what I bring to the table:

  • Xero Accounting – bank reconciliation, payroll, GST returns, and customised reports
  • Fergus Job Management – syncing job costing, Job Management, invoicing, and time sheets with your accounts
  • Accounts Payable & Receivable – keeping your cash flow on track
  • Payroll & PAYE – seamless, compliant pay runs and staff payments
  • Monthly & Year-End Reporting – clear, accurate reports for better business decisions
  • Tax Compliance – stress-free GST filing

Outside of the office, I’m a proud mum to three -two grown and one 13-year-old who keeps me busy on the sidelines of his rugby games. When I’m not cheering him on, you’ll probably find me soaking up the sea breeze at one of New Plymouth’s beautiful beaches.

Whether you’re a tradie, contractor, or small business owner, I’m here to make sure your numbers add up and your systems run smoothly. Let’s talk about how I can support your growth and give you back more time for what you do best.

Jodie Thorne

I’m Jodie, originally from Bristol, England, but I moved to beautiful New Zealand in 2004 with my husband, Darren. We love it here, and we’re now proud NZ citizens! We live in Tauranga with our dog Milo, and my horse Ira.

I’ve been working in the web industry for over 20 years in a range of roles and companies, from small businesses to big corporates, including 17 years running my web design and development company here in Tauranga. I have a passion for user experience, making the online customer journey as easy and seamless as possible, and I love learning about the people and businesses I’m building websites for.

Outside of work, you’ll find me at the paddock riding my horse, on the beach in my off-road wheelchair with my dog, or travelling around the country on adventures with Darren and Milo, in our wheelchair-access renovated caravan!

Website Creator

20241125 Zesty24 1268970 scaled e1733801951465
Jodie headshot png
Lilla headshot png

Social Media Content Creator

20241125 Zesty24 1399092 1 scaled

Lilla Nikoletti

I’m passionate about helping small businesses stand out with unique and engaging designs. I love working with clients to create user-friendly visuals that make a real connection with their audience.

Over the years, I’ve developed expertise in crafting marketing materials, social media content, brand identities, and web and mobile designs. My goal is always to make your brand shine with clear and eye-catching visuals.
When I’m not designing, you’ll often find me pet-sitting a range of animals—from cats and dogs to sheep and peacocks!

We’re here to help lighten your load and free up your time

Each of our team members brings a unique set of skills to the table, and we work together to tailor our support to your business’s specific needs.

Zesty Virtual Assistants Team

Let’s work together

Ready to put our team to work for your business?

Let’s work together to take the stress out of running your business. Book your free discovery call today and see how our team can support you every step of the way.

Book a discovery call

Our team has over 20 years of combined experience across a variety of industries. From bookkeeping, payroll, admin and CRM management, to social media, web design, website development, and business strategy, each team member brings specialised expertise to support your business.

Yes! We assign team members based on your specific needs, so you’ll always work with someone who understands your business inside and out. However, as part of a team, we also ensure there’s always backup support available if needed.

We adapt to what works best for you! Whether it’s email, Zoom, phone calls, or task management tools, we’ll ensure communication is seamless and keeps your business running smoothly.

Absolutely. We take privacy and confidentiality seriously. Our team works with secure systems and maintains strict confidentiality standards, ensuring your sensitive information is safe and protected.

We pride ourselves on taking the time to truly get to know our clients. During the onboarding process, we’ll deep-dive into your business, systems, and goals, ensuring we provide tailored support that feels like we’re part of your team.