Property speculation, particularly short-term “flipping”, became increasingly common during the rapid rise in property values seen in New Zealand between 2020 and late 2021. However, the sharp market correction that followed through 2022 and 2023 exposed the risks of this strategy. The High Court case of Smallridge v Singh [2025] NZHC 242 provides a clear
When buying or selling residential property in New Zealand, one issue that frequently causes post-settlement disputes is the distinction between chattels and fixtures. Although it sounds technical, understanding this difference and recording items clearly in the agreement – can save both parties time, money, and unnecessary stress. Chattels are movable items of personal property that
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
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
The Government has announced its intention to reform the building consent system with the aims of improving efficiency and consistency in building consent delivery. At present some 67 Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) – which are usually local and district councils, can also be regional councils (for dams) and private organisations – operate across New Zealand,
An example of the critical importance of purchasers understanding their obligations under conditional sale and purchase agreements is the Strack v Grey case. (Strack v Grey [2019] NZCA 432) What Happened Essentially Grey, an Otago businessman who owned a property in Mosgiel, wanted to buy the Strack’s property in Dunedin. Grey wanted to put in
You can change friends but not neighbours … or so the saying goes. So it’s all the more important to try to maintain friendly – or at least cordial relations with your neighbours. When it comes to boundary fences, these relationships can come under additional pressure, so it’s important to do things well and to
Paul Gallagher Legal providing legal services on the North Shore and across wider Auckland area.
We close for Xmas at 5pm 19th December and reopen on 19th January with some staff back 12th January.
Compliments of the season to you also and we hope you enjoy a relaxing break.