About us

EST. 1945

Koller & Hassall has deep roots in the North Canterbury community, built on a foundation of service, integrity, and long-standing relationships.

Under the leadership of Alun Hassall and Kathy Hansell, Koller & Hassall remains committed to the values that have sustained it for eight decades. Since inception in 1945, the firm has grown into a modern and client-focused practice, with a talented team of six accountants and two administrative professionals.

Together, our team continues to deliver personalised service and expert advice to a diverse and loyal client base

Our Team

Director

Alun Hassall

Director

Kathy Hansell

Accountant

Chris O’Brien

Accountant

Emma Manson

Accountant

Summer Adriaens

Accountant

Lauren Van Slooten

Accountant

Leigh Jones

Graduate Accountant

Julian Klass

Receptionist

Bella Judkins

Our History

1945

Origins and Early Growth: The practice began in 1945, when Gil Koller established himself as an accountant in Rangiora. In 1947, he amalgamated with the local branch of Burt and McGilvray, later buying out the partnership in 1953 and continuing under his own name. From 1951, the practice was based in Ashley Street, where it remained for 40 years.

Over the years, Gil became a well-known figure in the community — not only for his accounting work but also through his public service. He served three years on the Rangiora County Council and six years on the Rangiora Borough Council, and was active in local swimming initiatives, including the learn-to-swim programme.

1962

The Arrival of Brent Hassall: In 1962, Gil hired a young accountant named Brent Hassall, who had experience both in Christchurch and in the Rangiora business community. Brent joined Gil in partnership on 1 May 1967, at which point the firm adopted the name Koller & Hassall.

Brent, too, became a respected figure in the district. He served nine years on the Rangiora Borough Council and was Deputy Mayor for three years in the 1970s. He was also deeply involved in community life, earning life membership with the Rangiora Hockey Club.

1991

A New Home and Continued Growth: In 1991, the firm relocated to its current premises at 267 High Street, Rangiora, taking over the building formerly occupied by the Rural Bank. The move marked a new chapter in the firm’s development, providing a more modern and accessible location for clients and staff.

When Gil passed away in 1992, Brent continued the practice as a sole practitioner, guiding it through a rapidly evolving professional landscape — from the era of handwritten ledgers and typewriters to the digital transformation of accounting.

2000

Transition to a New Generation: In 2000, Brent welcomed Alun Hassall as a partner and director, and the firm became Koller & Hassall Ltd. A decade later, in 2010, Kathy Hansell joined the leadership team, ensuring continuity of values, expertise, and community connection.

On 1 May 2007, Brent celebrated 40 years in partnership, a milestone marked with a staff celebration and reflections on the firm’s long-standing relationships. Some clients had been with the firm since its early days in the 1940s, and staff like Shirley Tull (25 years) and Earleen Peter (40 years) exemplified the firm’s strong culture of loyalty and professionalism.

Today

Koller & Hassall Today: Now under the leadership of Alun Hassall and Kathy Hansell, Koller & Hassall remains committed to the values that have sustained it for eight decades. The firm has grown into a modern and client-focused practice, with a talented team of six accountants and two administrative professionals. Together, they continue to deliver personalised service and expert advice to a diverse and loyal client base.

We remain deeply grateful for the trust and support of our clients — some now spanning three generations — and we look forward to continuing that tradition of service for many years to come.