Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but without the right legal guidance it can quickly become an overwhelming, complex and costly nightmare. There are several steps that first home buyers often overlook. Missing these can lead to delays, unexpected costs, and even serious financial risk. The Sale and Purchase Agreement Is Key The […]
Things First Home Buyers in New Zealand Often Miss Read More »
Introduction Property disputes between neighbours are common in New Zealand. They usually arise in relation to boundary issues, fences, encroachments, overhanging trees and easements. While these matters may begin as minor disagreements, things can quickly escalate if parties are unsure of, or don’t know, their legal position. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a neighbour
Property disputes between neighbours: what are your rights? Read More »
It is a question we are often asked: “Once a sale and purchase agreement is signed, can the deal still fall over?” The answer depends on whether the agreement is conditional or unconditional. Once signed, a sale and purchase agreement is legally binding. However, whether a party can withdraw without consequence and/or penalty depends on
Can a Property Sale Fall Through After Signing? Read More »
From 1 December 2025 a set of changes to the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) take effect that change how pets are handled in rental homes across New Zealand. The reforms are aimed at making it easier for tenants to keep pets while giving landlords clearer tools and protections to manage risks and recover pet-related damage.
When you buy or own property in New Zealand, you may come across the term easement. Easements are a common legal feature of land ownership, and while they can sound technical, they play an important role in allowing landowners to use their property effectively. What is an Easement? An easement is a legal right to
Understanding Easements in New Zealand Read More »
Under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (PRA), everything a couple owns is sorted into two baskets when they separate or when one partner dies: relationship property and separate property. Knowing which basket an asset falls into can prevent costly arguments later. Relationship property Most things acquired during a marriage, civil union or qualifying de-facto relationship
Understanding Separate vs Relationship Property Read More »
The Government has announced fast-tracked reforms to the Public Works Act (PWA), aiming to speed up compulsory land acquisitions for major infrastructure projects. These changes will significantly impact individual landowners, particularly those affected by Fast-Track approvals projects and Roads of National Significance. KEY CHANGES AFFECTING LANDOWNERS NO MORE OBJECTIONS TO THE ENVIRONMENT COURT Currently, landowners
Public Works Act Reforms: What it Means for Landowners Read More »
Buying a property is one of the biggest financial commitments most people will make. In New Zealand, many buyers assume that if they are using the standard ADLS/ Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) approved Agreement for Sale and Purchase of Real Estate, they do not need legal advice before signing. However, failing to
Why You Should Always Consult a Lawyer Before Signing a Property Agreement Read More »
In New Zealand, trees planted close to property boundaries can lead to disputes, especially when branches overhang or roots encroach into a neighbouring property. Understanding the law governing these situations can help property owners resolve issues amicably and avoid unnecessary conflicts. OWNERSHIP OF OVERHANGING BRANCHES AND FRUIT Legally, the branches, leaves, and fruit of a
Overhanging Trees, Boundary Issues, and Ownership of Fruit: What you Need to know Read More »
The Government has announced its intention to reform the building consent system with the aims of improving efficiency and consistency in building consent delivery. At present some 67 Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) – which are usually local and district councils, can also be regional councils (for dams) and private organisations – operate across New Zealand,
Proposed Building Consent System Reform Read More »
We wish you safety, joy, and special moments with your loved ones.
Our office will be closing at midday on the 23rd of December and reopen at 9am on the 12th of January 2026.
From the 12th of January 2026, we welcome you to our new office at:
7 Paerata Road,
Pukekohe.
