Insight Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill: Key Select Committee Changes New Zealand’s resource management reforms have taken another significant step forward, with the Planning Bill (PB) and Natural Environment Bill (NEB) now reported back by the Environment Select Committee. Read more
Insight 7-Eleven vs Nike – What can New Zealand learn from this overseas lawsuit? The recent dispute between 7-Eleven and Nike in the United States highlights the increasing importance of protecting a brand's overall identity, beyond traditional trade marks such as word marks and logos. The case is significant because it does not centre on Nike using the "7-Eleven" name or logo. Instead, 7-Eleven argues that the combination of the shoe's colour scheme, its launch date and the surrounding marketing, was sufficient to create the impression that the shoe was connected with or endorsed by 7-Eleven. Read more
Insight New regulations making papakāinga developments easier New national papakāinga rules are now in force, creating a more consistent planning pathway for housing and related activities on Māori ancestral land. This article outlines where the new rules apply, what development may be permitted, and where resource consent may still be required. Read more
Insight Building Amendment Bill: proportionate liability reforms on the way The Building Amendment Bill, introduced to Parliament on 29 June 2026, is the latest in a series of Government reforms designed to tackle increased costs, delayed delivery and underperformance in the building sector. Read more
Insight The Bank of Mum and Dad: Legal considerations for families helping first home buyers For many first home buyers, getting into the property market is no longer just about saving harder; it is about getting help. Enter the Bank of Mum and Dad. Once considered a “nice-to-have”, family support is now, for many, the only realistic pathway to home ownership. But while money from parents can open doors, such arrangements also raise important questions as to the simplicity of the lending and the potential for complications or hidden risks. Read more
Insight Planning ahead: why you need an Enduring Power of Attorney An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) is a legal document that lets you appoint a trusted person to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. In New Zealand, EPAs are established under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988 (PPPR Act). Read more
Insight Cross-leases, renovations and neighbour disputes — a shift in approach The Court of Appeal has confirmed a significant shift in how cross-lease renovation disputes will be assessed. The decision strengthens individual property rights and limits when neighbours can reasonably withhold consent to proposed works. Read more
Guide Global Arbitration Review 2026: Construction Arbitration guide (New Zealand) A practical overview of New Zealand's construction arbitration framework, including key legal principles, procedure and enforcement, as part of Global Arbitration Review's international Know-How: Construction Arbitration guide. Read more
