Small Homes, Big Opportunities: What the Building and Construction (Small Stand-alone Dwellings) Amendment Bill Means for Contractors
Rebecca Richter, Lawyer, Ford Sumner Lawyers New Zealand’s construction sector is undergoing a significant regulatory update that will impact all homeowners, contractors, architects and insurers. The Building and Construction (Small Stand-alone Dwellings) Amendment Bill (the Bill) aims to streamline the process of building small stand-alone dwellings, otherwise known as granny flats. If you’re a residential builder, subcontractor, […]
Keep the cash flowing – tips to get paid – Part 2
Rebecca Richter, Lawyer, Ford Sumner Lawyers Cashflow is king for any small contractor — yet late payments or clients who don’t pay at all can cripple your business. But one powerful tool can help protect your cash flow – making sure your invoices are valid payment claims under the Construction Contracts Act 2002 (CCA). Do you have small […]
The Good Employer
Welcome to our latest Employment Newsletter – The Good Employer. In this issue we bring you up to date with the latest in employment law developments and practical workplace considerations. Click here to see The Good Employer Newsletter. Feel free to share this newsletter around, and please let us know your suggestions for future issues! […]
Airports Newsletter April 2026
Welcome to our latest Airports Newsletter! In this newsletter, you’ll find valuable legal updates on issues impacting airports and their operations. Click here to see the Airports Newsletter. Feel free to share this newsletter around, and please let us know your suggestions for future issues! As always, don’t hesitate to reach out if you need […]
Lessons from Popeyes: Why Trade Mark Protection Is a Business Essential
In today’s competitive market, a business’ brand is more than just a name or a logo, it’s a valuable asset. It is your business’ identity. It’s how customers recognise you, remember you, and choose you over competitors. But what happens if someone else tries to profit from your hard-earned reputation? That’s where trade mark protection […]
Smart Exits and Strategic Entries: Navigating Vendor Finance and Earn-Outs
If you are a vendor or a purchaser of a business and are struggling to find enough upfront capital for your exit or entry, there are a few options that are available to you that could help bridge this gap. Two popular strategies are vendor finance and earn-outs, both of which can ease the burden […]
Property Owners view preserved through court upholding covenant
A recent High Court decision has prevented the potential subdivision of a property at St Arnaud, near Nelson. The decision highlights the ‘roadblock’ effect land covenants can have, particularly where the proposed development has the potential to cause injury to neighbouring landowners. In Beechnest (2014) Ltd v Marshall [2023] NZHC 519, Beechnest, a property developer, purchased two […]
Rent payment in time saves nine: court gives reminder of the consequence of putting off rent
With increasing financial pressure on businesses and individuals alike, the High Court’s recent judgment in James Ward Trustee Company Limited v Jarm[1] (“James Ward”) serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritising paying rent and the consequences of failing to do so. Background to the case James Ward concerned 3 sublessees who failed to pay rent over […]
External Investigations: A Guide For Employers
Workplace investigations can be among the most challenging and sensitive aspects of managing a business and employing staff. These processes can be stressful and disruptive, but there are ways to minimise risks and reduce potential disruption. This article explores when it may be appropriate to appoint an external workplace investigator, and why doing so can […]
Parliament Addresses Director Safety Concerns on legal and legislative changes.
For many retail business owners and directors, the requirement to publicly list a residential address on the New Zealand Companies Register has created ongoing privacy and safety concerns. The Companies (Address Information) Amendment Act 2025 (“the Act”) was passed on 18 November 2025 and introduces new privacy protections for company directors. The Act will come […]