Newsletter
The Law Lowdown – AUTUMN 2025
Catch up on all the news and information in this edition of The Law Lowdown Inside this issue: Download your copy here
March 25, 2025
Our Blog
General
Change to Parliamentary Term?
Among the world’s liberal democracies, Australia and New Zealand are notable for retaining three-year parliamentary terms. This term length is now uncommon, as the majority of countries with active legislatures have four-or five-year terms. It’s important to note that while other countries, such as El Salvador, Mexico, Nauru, and the Philippines, also have threeyear terms
March 25, 2025
Conveyancing
Public Works Act Reforms: What it Means for Landowners
The Government has announced fast-tracked reforms to the Public Works Act (PWA), aiming to speed up compulsory land acquisitions for major infrastructure projects. These changes will significantly impact individual landowners, particularly those affected by Fast-Track approvals projects and Roads of National Significance. KEY CHANGES AFFECTING LANDOWNERS NO MORE OBJECTIONS TO THE ENVIRONMENT COURT Currently, landowners
March 25, 2025
Conveyancing
Why You Should Always Consult a Lawyer Before Signing a Property Agreement
Buying a property is one of the biggest financial commitments most people will make. In New Zealand, many buyers assume that if they are using the standard ADLS/ Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) approved Agreement for Sale and Purchase of Real Estate, they do not need legal advice before signing. However, failing to
March 25, 2025
Family Trusts and Estate Planning
Regularly Check Your Will – Why it’s So Important
We often hear a sigh of relief when a client signs their Will. The assumption of course is “Ok great – that’s over and done with”. No need to think about it again. Unfortunately, that is just not the case. A Will is not something to write and forget. It should be reviewed regularly, especially
March 25, 2025
Family Trusts and Estate Planning
Clarification of Trust Powers and Relationship Property
The Supreme Court’s recent decision in Cooper v Pinney [2024] NZSC 181 (“Cooper”) has clarified the extent to which trust powers may be considered relationship property under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (PRA), refining the scope of its earlier landmark ruling in Clayton v Clayton [2016] NZSC 29 (“Clayton”). THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CLAYTON AND COOPER
March 25, 2025