Knowledge
Modernising the Companies Act and What It Means for Directors
Tuesday 6 May, 2025
The Government intends to introduce a raft of reforms aimed at modernising the Companies Act 1993 (Act) and other related corporate governance legislation. These changes seek to streamline business operations and counter harmful practices such as phoenixing.
Rent Law Reform: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
Tuesday 6 May, 2025
The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 introduces major changes to tenancy law, including reinstating no-cause terminations, allowing pet bonds, and expanding protections for tenants affected by family violence. These reforms aim to boost rental supply but have sparked debate over reduced security for tenants.
Judicial Review – A Risky Business
Monday 28 April, 2025
Commencing litigation is a big decision. It is important to carefully consider whether your claim has merit and to act reasonably throughout the proceeding, or you may end up having to pay over $50,000 in costs to the other parties. This was the case for Mahora Residents Society Inc.
CEO found guilty and fined $130,000 for breach of officer duty
Tuesday 22 April, 2025
The District Court has found the former CEO of Ports of Auckland guilty of breaching his due diligence duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act, following the death of a port worker. He was fined $130,000 and ordered to pay $60,000 in costs.
Win some, lose some: Lottery Winnings as Relationship Property
Tuesday 22 April, 2025
The chances of winning the lottery may be few and far between. Despite the odds, disputes over lottery winnings have come before the Court. The glory of striking it rich has been crushed for litigants when they have discovered that their prosperous prize was not all theirs to keep, but rather to be shared with their ex-partner.
Unprofessional behaviour of non-lawyer advocates in the Employment Court
Thursday 17 April, 2025
A recent Employment Court decision highlights growing concerns around the conduct of non-lawyer advocates. In Joyce v Ultimate Siteworks Ltd, the Court criticised an advocate’s abusive behaviour but acknowledged its limited powers to regulate unlicensed representatives, raising questions about the need for formal oversight or legislative reform.