News

Things First Home Buyers in New Zealand Often Miss
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

Property disputes between neighbours: what are your rights?
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

Can a Property Sale Fall Through After Signing?
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

Family Violence Leave: What You Need to Know
Tragically, New Zealand continues to have one of the highest rates of family violence in the OECD. Family violence leave is a key legal entitlement, designed to support employees affected

The Law Lowdown – SUMMER 2025
Catch up on all the news and information in this edition of The Law Lowdown Inside this issue: Download your copy here

Changes to Probate Requirements: What Families Need to Know
New Zealand’s estate administration rules have recently been updated, making it easier in some situations for families to wind up a loved one’s affairs without applying for probate. These changes

Five Crucial Aspects of Workplace Change and Redundancy
Redundancies have been on the increase over the past 12-months, and as New Zealand’s economic recovery is proving to be more sluggish than most had anticipated, redundancies may continue to

Exciting Move Ahead – Our New Home at 7 Paerata Road, Pukekohe
We are pleased to share some exciting news about the next chapter for our firm. From January 2026, we will be moving into larger, purpose-built premises at 7 Paerata Road,

Contractor or Employee: Key Differences and Legal Implications
The distinction between contractors and employees is a critical issue in employment law, with significant ramifications for businesses and individuals alike. Misclassification can lead to disputes, penalties, and reputational damage.

Directors’ duties in New Zealand. What every business owner needs to know
Directors’ duties in New Zealand are not theoretical concepts. They are legal obligations that apply every day a company is operating. Whether you are a formal director, a de-facto director,

Personal guarantees in New Zealand. What business owners are really signing up for
Personal guarantees are a routine part of doing business in New Zealand. Banks require them for lending. Landlords often require them for commercial leases. Suppliers ask for them as part

Restraint of Trade FAQs
This article addresses some frequently asked questions about restraint of trade provisions – a commonplace employment practice. It also flags an important pending change to the law. WHAT is a
