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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
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 for certain legislative bodies, they may not all be classified strictly as liberal democracies. In Australia, the federal House of Representatives operates on a maximum
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 can object to a compulsory acquisition in the Environment Court, which assesses whether the acquisition is fair, sound, and reasonably necessary. Under the reforms: FASTER,
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 consult a lawyer before signing can lead to costly mistakes and legal complications. Please note that although the ADLS has changed its name to “The
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 after key life events, to ensure it still reflects your wishes. An outdated Will can lead to unintended consequences, disputes, and unnecessary stress for your
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 In Clayton, the Supreme Court found that a spouse’s control over a family trust was so extensive as to be tantamount to ownership, and the
