The research is strongly applied and connected to current issues in New Zealand and international business environments. This research is used in teaching to provide practical examples, case studies, and real-world applications of accounting and finance concepts. Ākonga (students) engage with current research topics such as corporate governance and business strategy, helping them understand how theory applies in practice. Strong links to the profession ensure graduates are well prepared for roles in accounting, finance, and business analysis.
Key areas include how businesses are managed and regulated, how financial and non-financial information supports decision-making, and how organisations perform within wider economic systems.
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Michelle Liu Bachelor of Accounting Tutor
Michelle Liu’s research focuses on the institutional approach, examining how macro and micro institutions influence company performance and the social and economic outcomes of nations. She has presented this work at several international conferences and is currently developing a new New Zealand Corporate Governance Index to replace an outdated version.
Michelle incorporates this research into teaching by ensuring that topics such as corporate governance remain current and relevant across accounting courses. Her work helps ākonga (students) understand how governance affects financial performance and information disclosure. The development of the index also supports the profession by providing updated insights into corporate governance practices in New Zealand.
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Dr Sunil Lakhani’s research centres on accounting disclosures, ESG reporting, corporate finance, capital markets, and business strategy, with a particular interest in the role of non-financial information. His work examines how non-financial indicators shape business decisions, organisational performance, and investment outcomes, and how they contribute to forecasting and valuation. Through this research, he provides insights that support strategic planning, informed investment decisions, and improved organisational performance.
Dr Lakhani integrates his research into teaching by reinforcing core business concepts and connecting theory with practical decision-making. He helps ākonga (students) understand the growing importance of non-financial information in modern accounting and finance, while drawing on extensive teaching experience and supervision of research and internship projects. His research-informed approach ensures learning is relevant, applied, and aligned with professional practice.
