Kong was involved in architectural work through his company Landmark 2022 Ltd, previously trading as Arris Architecture Ltd.
But Landmark 2022 was put into liquidation in March last year.
“Judge Mathers noted the seriousness of the offending and said prison was the only sentence appropriate given the dollar amount involved ($1,128.233.11), how long the offending went on for (seven years) and the exotic, luxury vehicles Kong purchased,” Inland Revenue said.
“While in business, the only tax payment Kong made was in February 2023, when he paid $125,000 toward the company’s PAYE debt. It was only made once the company was facing liquidation. No further money was recovered from the liquidation.”
Tax Kong did not pay was withdrawn from the company bank account and used to buy expensive vehicles including the 6-litre Bentley.
“Kong admitted he understood his obligation to pay tax, and the prosecutor told the court the offending was brazen and showed a high level of entitlement on Kong’s part,” Inland Revenue said.
“As well, Kong was trusted by his employees to account for their PAYE deductions on their behalf, including KiwiSaver, student loan repayments and other associated tax types.”
Kong was sentenced to two years and one month’s imprisonment.
