June 2025 Recording workplace conversations in New Zealand – a growing concern Employees may be asked to attend a meeting with their employer at any time. The meeting might be about performance, conduct, or some other matter or incident they are involved in or have been asked to respond to. The need to maintain a… Read More.

June 2025 It is becoming increasingly common for directors to provide a personal guarantee (PG), guaranteeing a company’s obligations. Whether the guarantee is to secure a lease, obtain funding for working capital or reassure a supplier, the terms of each guarantee will differ, but the underlying principle remains the same – a personal commitment to… Read More.

March 2025 Contracting out agreements, commonly referred to as ‘pre-nups’, can be an awkward topic to raise with your partner, but they are an essential tool in your asset planning and protection toolbox. Contracting out agreements provide clarity to both parties (or their survivors) in the event that they separate or one or both of… Read More.

March 2025 As a business owner, it is prudent to protect your interests. Most business owners establish essential layers of protection, by structuring their businesses appropriately and securing essential insurance coverage to minimise potential personal exposure from creditors. Yet, one critical safeguard that is often overlooked is having a set of clear, well-drafted Terms of… Read More.

March 2025 The recent High Court judgment of Colcroft Holdings Limited v Meadows [2024] NZHC 173 illustrates important lessons when buying and selling property. Here are some key takeaways that will help you get your ducks in a row if you are interested in buying property. Summary of the case Mr Meadows purchased a house… Read More.

March 2025 Rural landowners often consider developing or subdividing their land. This article explores one key aspect and how it might impact these plans. What is the National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land (NPS-HPL)? The National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land (NPS-HPL) came into effect in 2022 with the objective of protecting highly… Read More.

December 2024 This year is proving to be an especially difficult period for employers and employees throughout New Zealand. Many businesses are reporting a disappointing year with declines in revenue and operating profits. Some of this performance is due to the macro environment, such as inflation, employment, spending, and monetary and fiscal policy. This is… Read More.

December 2024 A common misconception that employers often hold is that they can rely on verbal warnings to justify formal disciplinary or performance management outcomes, instead of going through a formal process. The reality is that it’s not that simple. While there is a place for verbal warnings, employers should be cautious when seeking to… Read More.