Auckland firm takes on robot accountant

Telepresence robot 'George', seen in the back right, has been imported by an Auckland accounting firm.

An Auckland accounting firm has hired a robot to allow staff to have a presence at conferences, meetings and training programmes without physically attending.

Dubbed "George" the telepresence robot was created by American company Double Robotics and retails for around $3300.

George is the first robot of its kind to be bought to New Zealand, and is controlled by a remote user who can appear on-screen, or use the robot as a platform to show others content during training, workshops and seminars.

He was bought by Brad Golchin, founder and director of Auckland accounting firm Wise Advice.

Golchin said his background was in IT and George was a "natural progression" for the business.

Once fully inducted into the team, Golchin said he intends to have George certified by Xero, with whom Wise Advice are a Platinum Partner.

Golchin said he also hopes George will be able to do clients' accounts and train others in Xero's software, as well as being sent to conferences, training programmes and meetings on behalf of the business.

Because he can be controlled by anyone, from anywhere, Golchin said he also intended to utilise George for charity work, giving people the opportunity to virtually meet their heroes and link people with those they can't see in person.

George will also be attending the country's biggest accounting conference Xerocon later this month, Golchin said.