Exit Planning in New Zealand: Sell Smart, Not Fast

Thinking about selling your business? Here’s what Kiwi owners need to know before they list.

Selling a business is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions a Kiwi owner will ever make.

Yet too often, it’s rushed.

The truth?

A great exit doesn’t happen by accident — it happens by design.

According to New Zealand exit advisor Jeremy Pak of Velocity Capital, most owners start thinking about selling after they’re already tired or under pressure.

“If you plan early, you can sell smart — not fast.” — Jeremy Pak


🧭 Why Exit Planning Matters

Exit planning isn’t just about getting a deal across the line.

It’s about making sure you get rewarded for the years you’ve invested.

Too many New Zealand businesses undersell because of:

  • patchy financials,
  • weak processes,
  • overreliance on the owner, or
  • poor timing.

A well-run exit plan turns your business into an attractive, low-risk asset.
That’s where Jeremy Pak’s “5 P’s of a Sale-Ready Business” framework comes in.


💼 1. Profitability

Buyers pay for profit — not potential.

Make sure your financials show consistent earnings and smart cost control.

Clean books, clear margins, and steady growth give buyers confidence that the business performs without guesswork.


🧑‍🤝‍🧑 2. People

A great team adds value.

If everything depends on the owner, the risk skyrockets.

Document roles, empower leaders, and build a culture that thrives independently.

Jeremy often reminds his clients:

“The best businesses run better when you’re not there.”


⚙️ 3. Process

Well-documented systems are a deal-maker.

From sales pipelines to customer onboarding and supplier management — processes reduce risk and boost valuation.

Buyers love predictability.


🖼️ 4. Presentation

First impressions count — online and off.

A tidy workshop, a clean website, professional branding, and even updated Google Reviews all signal quality.
In today’s world, presentation is proof of pride and performance.


🚀 5. Potential

Show buyers where the next chapter of growth lies.

Maybe it’s untapped regions, new products, or scalable systems.

The clearer the growth story, the higher the perceived value.


🇳🇿 The Kiwi Edge: Why Local Knowledge Matters

New Zealand’s business landscape is unique — small communities, tight networks, and a hands-on business culture.

That’s why working with a local expert like Jeremy Pak matters.

He understands how to balance numbers with the human side of a deal.

Jeremy doesn’t just broker sales — he helps owners exit with pride.

“Selling smart means leaving something that lasts,” he says.
“It’s not about walking away; it’s about passing the torch.”


🧩 Your Next Step

If you’re a Kiwi business owner thinking about your next move — whether that’s 6 months or 6 years away — start planning now.

Review your 5 P’s.
Get an exit-readiness check.

Selling your business should be the reward for years of effort — not a fire sale.

So take Jeremy Pak’s advice: plan early, polish your 5 P’s, and sell smart — not fast.


Featured Expert: Jeremy Pak — Exit Advisor, helping New Zealand business owners sell with confidence.