Newsletter
The Law Lowdown – SPRING 2026
Catch up on all the news and information in this edition of The Law Lowdown Inside this issue: Download your copy here
September 24, 2026
Our Blog
Commercial
Can you Trust a Five-star Review?
Online reviews have become an important part of the way we shop. Whether we are choosing a restaurant, booking accommodation or buying a product online, a string of five-star reviews can make all the difference. A recent case provides a timely reminder that those reviews need to be genuine. In August 2026, Brand Developers Limited,
September 24, 2026
Matrimonial
When a Contracting-out Agreement affects an Estate: Rimmer V Wilton
A recent Supreme Court decision has highlighted an important connection between relationship property agreements, wills and what happens when someone dies without a will. In Rimmer v Wilton [2026] NZSC 122, the Court considered whether a surviving partner could receive the benefits provided to her under a contracting-out agreement and then also receive additional property
September 24, 2026
Property Law
Earthquake-prone Building Rules are Changing – But What Does Your Lease Say?
New Zealand’s earthquake-prone building rules are heading for a major overhaul, but commercial landlords and tenants may find that changing the legislation is only part of the story. The Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Bill has passed its second reading and is currently before Parliament at the Committee of the Whole House stage. If enacted as
September 24, 2026
Commercial
Goodbye Holidays Act: A New System for Employee Leave is Coming
For many employers, payroll staff and employees, the Holidays Act 2003 has long had a reputation for being one of New Zealand’s more difficult pieces of employment legislation. Its replacement is now on the way. The Employment Leave Act 2026 received Royal assent on 6 August 2026 and will replace the Holidays Act from 6
September 24, 2026