Insights & Articles

Interesting insights on various areas of New Zealand law for individuals and businesses alike.
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Legislative gap leaves New Zealand exposed to deepfakes. The march of technology means almost anyone can create deepfakes, often
in a matter of minutes.
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Legislative gap leaves New Zealand exposed to deepfakes

Legislative gap leaves New Zealand exposed to deepfakes. The march of technology means almost anyone can create deepfakes, often in a matter of minutes.
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After separation, one partner may need financial support while they transition to becoming financially independent.
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Maintenance after the end of a relationship

After separation, one partner may need financial support while they transition to becoming financially independent. Spousal maintenance is separate from child support payments as its focus is on supporting an adult party rather than supporting any children. If a party has made an application for spousal maintenance, they can apply to receive interim maintenance urgently from the other party, to assist them financially in the interim while the final spousal maintenance proceedings are being settled.
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Earthquake-prone buildings: If you lease or own (or intend to) premises for your business or a commercial building, you may be affected by recent changes.
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Earthquake-prone buildings: Are you on shaky ground?

The introduction of the Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Act 2016 introduced major changes to how earthquake-prone buildings are identified and managed under the Building Act 2004. If you are looking to lease or buy then investigate if the new rules might impact the property you are looking at. If the property does fall under the new rules, then you need to make yourself aware of how this could impact a lease or your investment.
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Business Sales and the Consequences of Misrepresentation. Selling a business demands that owners and agents don't make misrepresentations.
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Selling a business (pet treats) and the consequences of misrepresentation

Selling a business requires owners and agents to highlight the appealing aspects of the business to attract potential buyers. Emphasising the positives is important, but when information veers into misleading territory, it can lead to significant issues.
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Relations Authority (ERA) recently issued a noteworthy determination, awarding in favour of an employee who had endured severe bullying in the workplace.
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A large compensation payment for bullying

The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) recently issued a noteworthy determination, in which a significant amount of compensation was awarded in favour of an employee who had endured severe bullying in the workplace. This case has the potential to establish a precedent, paving the way for comparable compensation awards to be made in cases involving moderate to severe breaches of employment law by employers.
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Buying a 'pre-loved' boat/ship (or any major asset for that matter) irrespective of the size without undertaking due diligence is very risky.
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Boat purchase 101 - Technical due diligence

The importance of due diligence cannot be overstated; a little bit of time and money spent prior to purchasing a boat should (but not always) save a lot of time, frustration, and money if the boat turns out to be other than advertised. Also, it occasionally uncovers issues that even the owner was unaware of.
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In the intricate landscape of estate planning and the execution of wills, the selection of legally appointed executors and trustees is critical.
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Will woes and family drama: will drafting, executor responsibilities, and balancing family relationships

In the intricate landscape of estate planning and the execution of wills, the selection of legally appointed executors and trustees is critical. We explore an example case, which is a real eye-opener on the wild ride of wills, family dynamics, and the not-so-simple task of divvying up the goods.
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With the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article explores the potential areas of litigation that have emerged globally, businesses need to consider.
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Legal Landscapes Post-COVID: Navigating Global Challenges for Businesses

As the world grapples with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses face a myriad of legal challenges. From the financial strain on corporations to the nuances of insurance claims and employment law intricacies, the landscape is evolving. This article explores the potential areas of litigation that have emerged globally, shedding light on crucial aspects for businesses to consider.
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Nikah - what this can mean for your relationship property entitlements.
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Enforcing a Nikah (an Islamic marriage contract)

If you and your partner intend to enter into a nikah, it is important to consult with a lawyer to advise you of the possible effects and implications of that agreement and your property rights should you and your partner separate. If you and your partner have already separated and you have entered into a nikah, a lawyer can also advise you on what that means for your relationship property entitlements.
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The government is extending the availability of 90-day trial periods to all employers. This is a great time to ensure your employment agreements are up to date.
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Ensure your employment agreements are up to date

The Holidays Act 2003 specifically provides for annual 'customary' closedowns. There are a few rules you need to be aware of. We have set out some scenarios, and answered the most commonly asked questions.
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In an age where time is of the essence and personal schedules are tightly packed, the reliability of transportation services is paramount.
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Empowering passengers: Exploring consumer rights regarding late departures in transportation services

In an age where time is of the essence and personal schedules are tightly packed, the reliability of transportation services is paramount. Late departures by trains, buses, flights, and other means of transportation have become a common concern for consumers around the world. The rights of consumers when faced with tardy departures are not to be taken lightly.
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There are a few rules you need to be aware of. We have set out some scenarios below, and the most commonly asked questions.
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Closing down over Christmas and managing annual leave

The Holidays Act 2003 specifically provides for annual 'customary' closedowns. There are a few rules you need to be aware of. We have set out some scenarios, and answered the most commonly asked questions.
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Wills – Choosing the right executor

Wills – Choosing the right executor

Written by:
Emma Turnbull
Choosing the right executor is one of the most important decisions you will make when preparing your Will. The person you appoint can significantly influence how smoothly the estate administration process unfolds. Who you choose truly shapes the course of the administration and the experience for your loved ones.
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With weeks to go, sports clubs risk losing their incorporated status

With weeks to go, sports clubs risk losing their incorporated status

Written by:
Ben Longbottom
With less than three months remaining before the 5 April 2026 deadline, growing concern is emerging that many sports clubs and community organisations across New Zealand may be unintentionally heading towards dissolution.
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Understanding section 72 notices on your property title

Understanding section 72 notices on your property title

Written by:
When reviewing a property title, you may notice a reference to Section 72 of the Building Act 2004, or in some cases, its predecessor under the Building Act 1991. While it can look like a routine technical notation, a Section 72 notice is anything but minor. It signals that the land is affected by a known natural hazard and can have far-reaching consequences for property owners, buyers, developers, lenders, and insurers alike.
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Employment Relations Amendment Bill passes: 2026 reforms explained

Employment Relations Amendment Bill passes: 2026 reforms explained

The Government’s Employment Relations Amendment Bill 2025 has passed its third reading on 17 February 2026, marking the most significant shift in New Zealand’s employment law settings since 2018. Most of the changes will take effect the following day after the Bill receives the Royal Assent (expected imminently).
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KiwiSaver contribution increases from April 2026 – What employers and employees need to know

KiwiSaver contribution increases from April 2026 – What employers and employees need to know

New Zealand’s KiwiSaver scheme is set for a significant adjustment on 1 April 2026, with compulsory contribution rates for both employers and employees rising from 3% to 3.5%. This change forms part of the government’s staged plan to strengthen retirement savings, with a further increase to 4% scheduled for 1 April 2028.
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A new year. Legal clarity you can rely on

A new year. Legal clarity you can rely on

Written by:
The start of a new year is a natural time to reflect, reset, and plan ahead. For individuals, families, and businesses alike, clarity brings confidence. At McVeagh Fleming, our role is to provide that clarity through practical, considered legal advice that supports you at every stage of life and business.
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Am I in a De Facto Relationship?

Am I in a De Facto Relationship?

Written by:
Peter Fuscic
Brydie Sherlaw-McGowan
Do you live with your significant other? Have you acquired any property together? Are you financially dependent on one another? While marriage might not be on the cards for the two of you, you may already be in a "de facto relationship" in the eyes of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (the PRA).
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Your name isn’t on the house title, what can you do?

Your name isn’t on the house title, what can you do?

Written by:
Peter Fuscic
Sarah Boswell
If you live in a home with your partner but your name isn’t on the property title, you may still have legal rights. If the relationship breaks down or your partner tries to sell, this can leave you feeling worried or powerless. Learn what options you have.
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Managing closedown periods under the Holidays Act – a guide for employers

Managing closedown periods under the Holidays Act – a guide for employers

Written by:
Michael Witt
With the holiday season approaching, many businesses are planning a closedown period. This guide explains what employers must do to stay compliant with the Holidays Act 2003.
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PC120: What homeowners, buyers and developers need to know

PC120: What homeowners, buyers and developers need to know

Written by:
Daniel Kenyon
Natasha Rivai
Auckland Council has notified Plan Change 120 ("PC120"), a significant update to the Auckland Unitary Plan aimed at delivering housing intensification while improving resilience to natural hazards. Submissions are open until 19 December 2025, and the implications for property buyers, owners, and developers are substantial. Learn what homeowners, buyers, and developers need to know.
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