Insights & Articles

Interesting insights on various areas of New Zealand law for individuals and businesses alike.
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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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This article discusses the importance of property owners in New Zealand reviewing their insurance coverage, especially given widespread flood damage.
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Is your property adequately insured?

This article discusses the importance of property owners in New Zealand reviewing their insurance coverage, especially in the aftermath of widespread damage caused by weather events in 2023. The focus of this article is on the often-overlooked aspects of insurance related to land and potential complications arising from natural hazards.
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Identify key changes, review your society's rules, draft a new constitution, advice on re-registration, or organisational structure - we offer guidance.
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Incorporated societies: Key changes and compliance

With approximately 24,000 incorporated societies in New Zealand, ranging from substantial business-like entities to modest sporting clubs, the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 ("New Act") influence is far-reaching. Regardless of size, all incorporated societies will be affected, so it is crucial to understand and prepare for the implications of the New Act to avoid potential consequences for non-compliance.
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Banks are tightening their lending requirements, prompting many buyers to explore alternative options like second-tier lending. Mezzanine.
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Second-Tier Lending: Understanding the Fine Print

In today's financial landscape, banks are tightening their lending requirements, prompting many buyers to explore alternative options like second-tier lending. Mezzanine financers and other last-resort money lenders can provide vital financial support, but it's crucial to approach these agreements with caution and a clear understanding of the fine print. After all, surprises are for birthdays, not loan agreements!
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Medical incapacity of an employee is a challenge that demands a delicate balance between empathy and practicality.
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Medical incapacity of an employee

Medical incapacity of an employee is a challenge that demands a delicate balance between empathy and practicality. Determining when to draw the line on a long-term illness and how long to keep a job open for a sick employee is a challenging task shaped by case law intricacies. Employers are not expected to hold a position indefinitely but they must follow a fair process before terminating an employee’s employment.
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Protecting assets has become important for modern relationships, with the growing importance of prenuptial agreements in safeguarding individual interests.
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The importance of Prenuptial Agreements has increased

Protecting assets has become an integral aspect of modern relationships, with the growing importance of prenuptial agreements for safeguarding individual interests. In June 2023, the New Zealand Supreme Court issued a significant ruling in the case of Sutton v Bell, which centered on Sections 44 and 26 of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 ("PRA"). This decision marks a pivotal shift in the interpretation of key legal provisions governing property rights in relationships.
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If you're in the process of purchasing a property in Auckland, it's crucial to be aware of the potential limitations that may come with an agent-provided LIM.
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Buyer Beware: The Limitations of Agent-Provided LIMs

Obtaining a LIM is a crucial step for prospective property buyers, but with the cost of a LIM being around $400 and with many real estate agents offering LIMs at no cost, it can be tempting to rely on their convenient provision. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential limitations that may come with an agent-provided LIM.
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Succession, once a straightforward process, is now akin to navigating a minefield. The need for careful consideration and expert advice has never been greater.
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Family Business & Succession Wars!

Succession, once a straightforward process, is now akin to navigating a minefield. With children seeking to cash in on their beneficial interests or shareholdings to fuel their own ventures, the need for careful consideration and expert advice has never been greater.
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This article discusses the upcoming New Zealand General Election and highlights the political parties' campaign promises.
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The Impact of the Upcoming Election on Employment Law in New Zealand

We are fast approaching New Zealand's General Election, and the nation's political parties have hit the campaign trail with their visions for the country. Changes are expected not only in the political sphere but also in employment and workplace relations. This article discusses the political parties' campaign promises and provides an overview of some of the parties' plans for the future, with a note that the list is not exhaustive
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New law against pay secrecy

New law against pay secrecy

On 20 August 2025, Parliament passed a new law that purports to promote pay transparency by protecting employees who discuss their own remuneration (which may or may not involve disclosing their own remuneration) or enquire into the remuneration of another employee, with the goal of helping detect and address pay inequities - particularly relating to gender, Māori, and Pasifika pay gaps.
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How employers can avoid the immigration stand-down list

How employers can avoid the immigration stand-down list

If your business employs migrant workers, staying compliant with employment law is critical. A single breach, even if unintentional, can trigger formal enforcement action that places you on Immigration New Zealand’s public “stand-down list.” Once there, you lose the ability to hire or sponsor migrant workers for months or even years. For accredited employers, that can mean stalled recruitment, unfilled roles, and serious disruption to business operations.
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Outdated easements vs modern land use

Outdated easements vs modern land use

Written by:
George Steyn
For property developers, investors, and landowners in New Zealand, old easements or covenants can be more than just lines on a title - they can be roadblocks to progress. Recent court decisions under the Property Law Act 2007 are reshaping how and when these changes can be made, making it essential to understand the rules before you buy, build, or plan your next project.
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Legal support without borders

Legal support without borders

Written by:
Alissa Bell
Whether you're expanding internationally, navigating regulatory obligations, managing global teams, or dealing with cross-border transactions and disputes, trusted legal support with strong global connections gives your business a real advantage.
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High Court clarifies limits on early sale of restrained property

High Court clarifies limits on early sale of restrained property

What happens when a multi-million-dollar home in St Heliers, Auckland, is frozen due to an overseas criminal investigation – and a government-appointed officer tries to sell it before the case is decided?
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Building reports in property transactions

Building reports in property transactions

Written by:
Helen Lee
In New Zealand property transactions, building reports play a crucial role in the due diligence process, giving buyers a clearer understanding of a property's true condition before committing to a purchase, helping to uncover hidden issues, informing negotiations, and providing peace of mind. However, if misunderstood or misused, they can also complicate a deal.
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Parent Boost Visa: What It Means for Migrant Families

Parent Boost Visa: What It Means for Migrant Families

Written by:
Arran Hunt
New Zealand’s 5-year Parent Boost Visitor Visa allows parents and grandparents of citizens or residents to stay longer with family. Learn about eligibility, financial and health requirements, costs, and what to expect before applying.
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Understanding cross lease properties: Should you convert?

Understanding cross lease properties: Should you convert?

Ever wondered what the term “cross lease” really means—and whether converting to freehold is worth it? Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, make changes to your property, or convert your cross lease title to freehold, it’s important to understand what this form of property ownership really means — and what your options are.
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Accessing neighbouring land for drainage works

Accessing neighbouring land for drainage works

New housing developments often require access through neighbouring private property to install drainage or stormwater infrastructure. This can present challenges for both developers and affected property owners. This article provides practical advice on how to address this situation from both respective positions.
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NZ Immigration Health Policy: Inclusivity vs Sustainability

NZ Immigration Health Policy: Inclusivity vs Sustainability

Written by:
Kim Saran Lee
On 17 March 2025, New Zealand introduced stricter health requirements for dependent children of temporary visa holders — including those on work, student, and military visas. Children with severe developmental disorders or cognitive impairments requiring significant support are now ineligible for student or visitor visas, unless granted a medical waiver.
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