If your business still uses MYOB Exo Payroll or another desktop-based payroll system, it may be time to reassess your payroll setup. While MYOB Exo Payroll has served New Zealand businesses for many years, the shift toward modern, cloud-based payroll solutions has been accelerating for many years – and most organisations have begun the transition.
Desktop payroll systems like Exo Payroll require manual updates, local data storage, IT dependencies, and limited automation. In contrast, cloud-based payroll platforms now provide secure, real-time, fully integrated solutions that simplify compliance and reduce administrative workload.
This guide explains why many NZ businesses are moving away from older desktop payroll systems, the risks of staying on legacy technology, and how to plan a smooth transition to a cloud payroll in NZ, such as iPayroll.
Even before MYOB formally announced the retirement of Exo Payroll in New Zealand, several factors were already driving employers to upgrade.
New Zealand payroll legislation has evolved rapidly, including:
A cloud payroll software updates automatically. Desktop systems rely on manual updates that many businesses overlook.
Desktop payroll relies on:
Cloud payroll platforms store data securely in the cloud with encrypted backups and robust authentication.
Older desktop payroll systems often require:
Cloud platforms streamline workflows with automation and integration. iPayroll also provides KiwiSaver superannuation payments, online timesheets and leave management, reducing admin and eliminating manual errors.
Cloud payroll systems can be seamlessly integrated with:
Legacy systems struggle to integrate, leading to duplicate data entry and inefficiencies. In comparison to a cloud-based payroll software like iPayroll that integrates seamlessly with Xero and other accounting and HR tools, eliminating double data entry and ensuring payroll and accounts remain perfectly aligned – providing a single source of the truth.
If your NZ business continues using outdated payroll technology, you may face:
Manual calculations can lead to:
This can trigger IR corrections and employer penalties.
Local servers and desktop programs are more exposed to:
As legacy products age, updates become less frequent, compliance gaps can emerge, and support options narrow
Old payroll software may not work well with:
Small businesses should consider upgrading when:
Many NZ businesses choose to upgrade before issues arise, not after.
Here’s a pathway for NZ businesses planning to move away from older desktop solutions:
Document:
This helps define what your new payroll system must support.
Look for a platform that offers:
iPayroll meets all these needs and is trusted by thousands of businesses across New Zealand.
Accurate migration ensures:
The iPayroll Support Team provides migration support as part of setup and implementation, helping ensure a clean, reliable payroll configuration and a smooth first pay run.
Onboarding training will ensure payroll administrators and managers understand:
Plan your “switch” during a quiet pay period, allowing time for testing and validation.
Cloud-based payroll platforms like iPayroll offer:
Switching early ensures your business stays compliant and ahead of technology and compliance changes.
If your business is still using MYOB Exo Payroll or another desktop payroll system, now is the perfect time to upgrade. iPayroll is New Zealand’s trusted cloud-based payroll provider – secure, compliant, and designed specifically for NZ businesses. With iPayroll, you get:
Make the transition now and future-proof your payroll with confidence. Book a free demo today.
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