News
New pet rules for rentals (effective 1 December 2025) — what landlords and tenants need to know
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
Parenting Arrangements for Children
One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking of families is children, and so for many couples, when a relationship ends, arrangements for the children is one
“I’m your parent – I know best!” – Is that always the case?
As anyone working in family law or who has had any interactions with the Family Court in New Zealand will know, the Care of Children Act 2004 (COCA) sets out
Introducing the Employment Leave Act for a Modern Workforce
The Government has announced that the Holidays Act 2003 will be repealed and replaced by the Employment Leave Act to streamline leave entitlements and address other key areas. Some of
Unjust, But Not Unlawful?
The Government is proposing several amendments to the Employment Relations Act 2000 in the Employment Relations Amendment Bill 175-1 (Government Bill). This article identifies how these will impact on high-income
The Law Lowdown – SPRING 2025
Catch up on all the news and information in this edition of The Law Lowdown Inside this issue: Download your copy here
Time to get a Will or review your current Will
September was Will’s Month and Blackwood Montagna acknowledged this with a well-attended drinks and nibbles function at the Franklin Club on Tuesday 16th September. Lawyers George Nonu and Simon Bratley
Welcoming our new team members
At Blackwood Montagna, we are committed to providing high quality legal services with a strong focus on the Franklin and Pukekohe communities we are proud to serve. We have been
Understanding Easements in New Zealand
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
Know Your Rights in Health & Disability Care – And How to Speak Up
When you see a doctor, nurse, dentist, counsellor, midwife, pharmacist, or use any health or disability service in New Zealand, you have rights. These rights apply whether you’re at a
Consumer Rights for Flight Disruption Costs in New Zealand
Recently Jetstar was ordered to pay a $2.25 million fine after misleading customers about their compensation rights when flights were cancelled or delayed for reasons within its control. The case
SNEEZES, CHILLS, AND SICK LEAVE
With the winter season on us, the frequency of employees taking sick leave tends to increase. It is crucial for both employees and employers to understand the fundamental legal rights