Private investment fund
Investing in established New Zealand businesses for long-term success.
Private equity done right.
What we do
Yellowtail is a private investment fund focused on acquiring and holding high-quality, operationally led New Zealand businesses for long-term growth.
Established in 2025, we source and manage investments across private markets, taking a discreet, relationship-driven approach that builds confidence with both management teams and capital providers.
We target the acquisition of established businesses with consistent cash flow, resilient models, and strong long-term potential. Our goal is to support growth and the creation of sustainable value — ensuring each business continues to thrive well into the future.
As an active investor, we bring specialist skills and hands-on experience to help management teams enhance operations, expand market reach, and accelerate growth.
Our philosophy
Our investment philosophy is guided by three core principles: a long-term holding strategy, a belief that people are a business’s most important asset, and a commitment to supporting and growing New Zealand businesses that are achieving great things.
We invest patiently and purposefully — acquiring well-managed businesses with strong fundamentals and the potential to achieve even more. Our approach appeals to business owners seeking a trusted and enduring home for their company, and to investors looking for stable, long-term returns rather than short-term exits.
Investing for the long term
We’re not driven by short-term deadlines or fast turnarounds. Our patient capital approach means we hold businesses for as long as it takes to grow real, lasting value.
Built around people
Great people make great businesses. We back strong management teams and take care to preserve the culture and values that made each business successful.
Backing NZ businesses
Yellowtail is proudly local. We focus on mid-market NZ companies that are the backbone of our economy. We look for businesses with strong leadership, solid earnings, and a clear vision for the future.
Investment approach
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It all starts with a conversation. We listen to understand your business, goals, and vision — whether you’re planning succession, growth, or a new venture.
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We conduct an initial assessment to evaluate the company’s fundamentals and strategic fit. This helps ensure that any potential partnership aligns with the long-term interests of both the business and our investors.
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A thorough review of operations, financials, and market positioning allows us to fully understand the business and identify opportunities for growth. This step ensures transparency and builds confidence on both sides.
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Once we’re aligned on goals and strategy, we work closely to structure a partnership that protects the legacy of the business while supporting its next stage of growth.
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Our approach is collaborative, not intrusive. We support management teams with resources, guidance, and strategic input, helping businesses achieve their full potential while maintaining the values that make them successful.
We invest in select sectors such as manufacturing and materials, while pursuing complementary opportunities that align with our commitment to long-term value creation. As a privately held firm, we recognise that culture underpins success — and we build trusted partnerships founded on shared goals and enduring outcomes.
Rather than driving sweeping change, we work alongside management to strengthen operations. We respect what’s been created and focus on preserving legacy while shaping the next chapter of growth. Excellence, integrity, and a long-term outlook guide everything we do.
Our structured approach ensures every investment decision is grounded in insight and partnership.
Portfolio highlight
NTD
Napier, New Zealand
ntd.co.nz
In 2025, Yellowtail acquired NTD—an injection moulding business specialising in precision plastic components for industrial and commercial customers.
Core Services
Product design
Toolmaking
Injection moulding
Post-production
Key highlights
50 years of experience in plastic injection moulding and toolmaking
Cutting-edge technology
Committed to minimising environmental impact
Proudly manufacturing locally with the highest quality standards
About the founder
Ashton Jones is a business leader, investor, and advisor with nearly 20 years of experience operating, scaling and selling businesses. Most notably, he served as CEO of Cybersecurity Specialists (SSS), growing the company from a five-person team to a nationally recognised firm, culminating in its sale to Acheron Capital, the first New Zealand-based Search Fund acquisition.
Beyond SSS, Ashton founded and sold Information Safe and has advised on multiple business sales, including Oxygen Property Management. He is passionate about helping businesses thrive, combining expertise in business growth, leadership, M&A, governance, and technology with a people-first approach.
Ashton is actively seeking profitable, sustainable NZ businesses. He remains a Director and shareholder of SSS and is an active member of Wellington Angel Investors – Angel HQ, supporting Kiwi startups with funding, expertise, and mentorship.
Are you looking to sell?
Preserve what you’ve built
Your business represents years of dedication and hard work. We work with you to ensure your company’s values, culture, and legacy are protected for the future.
Support for your team
We prioritise the wellbeing of your employees, creating an environment where your team can continue to grow, thrive, and succeed under new ownership.
A sale that fits your needs
Every business is unique. We take the time to understand your goals and timeline, providing a flexible process that works for you—not just a transaction.
Positioned for the future
Our aim is to help your business continue to flourish. With the right guidance, resources, and strategic support, we leave it well-positioned for long-term growth and success.
Contact us
We’re always open to conversations with business owners who are thinking about succession, growth, or simply finding the right partner to take their business forward. If you’re proud of what you’ve built and want to see it thrive for the long term, we’d love to hear from you.