Christchurch Teen Dropout Turns Tax Troubles Into Startup Success

Highlights:

• Christchurch-based Lodg has signed up over 2,000 customers since launching in December.
• Co-founder Luke Kilworth started the business at 21 after leaving high school at 16.
• The app simplifies tax filing for sole traders, offering a low-cost alternative to traditional accounting.

Lodg Gains Traction With 2,000 Customers Since December Launch

At the time of writing, Christchurch-based startup Lodg—a tax software platform designed for sole traders—has attracted over 2,000 users since its December debut. Co-founded by 21-year-old Luke Kilworth, who left school at 16, the company is carving out a niche by helping self-employed individuals handle their tax obligations without the headache of traditional accounting.

From Dropout to Entrepreneur

Kilworth’s journey from school leaver to tech co-founder underscores the rise of unconventional entrepreneurship in New Zealand. Lodg was created with the idea that many sole traders dread dealing with taxes and accountants, preferring a simpler, do-it-yourself option. The app offers a user-friendly interface that streamlines tax submissions and management.

A Side-Hustle With Serious Momentum

Lodg isn’t just Kilworth’s brainchild. He built it alongside co-founders Oliver Hickman and Vincent Holloway, who also run Brooksfield, a property development firm known for its classically inspired housing. While Lodg began as a side project, its early growth suggests long-term potential.

Target Market: The Time-Poor Sole Trader

Lodg appeals to freelancers and sole proprietors looking for tax clarity without the overhead of professional help. By focusing on ease of use and automation, the platform is addressing a real pain point for small business owners.

With thousands of users already on board and growing interest, Lodg is positioning itself as a fresh face

in the digital accounting space—led by a young founder who's just getting started.

Disclaimer for Kapitales Research

The materials provided by Kapitales Research, including articles, news, data, reports, opinions, images, charts, and videos ("Content"), are intended for personal, non-commercial use only. The primary goal of this Content is to educate and inform readers. This Content is not meant to offer financial advice, nor does it include any recommendation or opinion that should be relied upon for making financial decisions. Certain Content on this platform may be sponsored or unsponsored, but it does not serve as a solicitation or endorsement to buy, sell, or hold any securities, nor does it encourage any specific investment activities. Kapitales Research is not authorized to provide investment advice, and we strongly advise users to seek guidance from a qualified financial professional, such as a financial advisor or stockbroker, before making any investment choices. Kapitales Research disclaims all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of the Content, which is provided without any warranties. The opinions expressed by contributors or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Kapitales Research. Media such as images or music used on this platform are either owned by Kapitales Research, sourced through paid subscriptions, or believed to be in the public domain. We have made reasonable efforts to credit sources where appropriate. Kapitales Research does not claim ownership of any third-party media unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Customer Notice:

Nextgen Global Services Pty Ltd trading as Kapitales Research (ABN 89 652 632 561) is a Corporate Authorised Representative (CAR No. 1293674) of Enva Australia Pty Ltd (AFSL 424494). The information contained in this website is general information only. Any advice is general advice only. No consideration has been given or will be given to the individual investment objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. The decision to invest or trade and the method selected is a personal decision and involves an inherent level of risk, and you must undertake your own investigations and obtain your own advice regarding the suitability of this product for your circumstances. Please be aware that all trading activity is subject to both profit & loss and may not be suitable for you. The past performance of this product is not and should not be taken as an indication of future performance.

Kapitales Research, Level 13, Suite 1A, 465 Victoria Ave, Chatswood, NSW 2067, Australia | 1800 005 780 | info@kapitales.com