Insights & Articles

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

The significance of insurance in the context of purchasing a home cannot be overstated. It is not only a critical component but also a mandatory one when seeking financial assistance from lenders for a home purchase. Lenders need proof of adequate and appropriate insurance coverage before approving a loan drawdown.

The death of a spouse or partner is an emotional and challenging time for the one left behind. Often left with the overwhelming task of handling the Deceased's estate, the surviving spouse or partner will be unaware of their entitlement under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (the "PRA"). Many will opt to taking under the Will, not knowing they also have the alternative option of applying under the PRA for a division of relationship property.

Is your company deducting the Employer KiwiSaver contribution from your employees' pay? A new Bill, introduced to Parliament on 8 June 2023, aims to revolutionize the employer's role in KiwiSaver contributions.

Woolley v Fonterra Co-Operative Group Ltd: The Exercise of Contractual Discretion‍On 29 June 2023, the New Zealand Court of Appeal delivered its judgment in the case of Woolley v Fonterra Co-Operative Group Ltd [2023] NZCA 266. In its judgment, the Court considered the approach to the exercise of contractual discretion in New Zealand, including the test adopted by the United Kingdom Supreme Court in Braganza v BP Shipping Ltd [2015] UKSC 17, [2015] 1 WLR 1661. A summary of the key facts of the matter and important points in the Court's decision follow.