Armstrong Murray

03/06/2026

🏠 Helping your children get on the property ladder?

Providing financial assistance can be a great way to help your children purchase their first home.

However, it's important to consider whether a gift or a loan is the most appropriate option and the implications of each approach for both parties.

Our latest article explores some key considerations 👇

Helping your child buy a home? Learn the difference between a gift and a loan, and how to protect your interests and future plans.

27/05/2026

We’re delighted to announce the promotion of four exceptional members of the Armstrong Murray team.

Lucy Wright’s skills, experience and leadership have seen her promoted to Principal. Lucy leads Armstrong Murray’s property team, where she is committed to delivering excellent outcomes for our clients. Since joining us on the North Shore in early 2025, Lucy has established herself as an invaluable member of our team, with expertise in property matters, relationship property, Wills and trust administration.

Emma Morris has been promoted to Associate, recognising her hard work and diligence since joining Armstrong Murray in early 2025. Emma’s dedication and dependability have made her an integral part of our Trusts and Estate Planning team. Alongside her specialisations, Emma also advises employers and employees on various aspects of employment law, and is highly regarded for her expertise in this area.

Sylvie James has been promoted to Senior Solicitor. Since joining Armstrong Murray in 2023, Sylvie has built a strong skillset in commercial leasing, business sales and acquisitions, corporate finance, and general corporate and commercial advice. Her breadth of expertise and practical approach to assisting clients with challenging transactions, make her a highly respected member of the team.

Finally, Nick Robertson has received a well-deserved promotion to Senior Solicitor. Clients value Nick’s extensive knowledge and friendly approach in providing practical, considered advice on Estate planning and asset protection. Nick’s particular expertise is advising on complex trust structures and navigating unique family relationships in Estate planning.

Congratulations to Lucy, Emma, Sylvie and Nick on their well-deserved achievements!

14/05/2026

The new methamphetamine contamination rules are now in force, setting out expectations around acceptable levels of contamination, and responsibilities for rental property owners.

The regulations set clear rules for testing, decontamination, and when a tenancy can be ended. They take a precautionary but pragmatic approach, offering practical guidance for managing contamination issues.

👉 For landlords, this means more defined responsibilities and a practical framework for dealing with contamination issues.

👉 For tenants, this provides stronger protections and improved standards for safe, healthy housing.

Landlords should use this change as an opportunity to review their insurance cover for testing, cleanup and potential loss of rent.

12/05/2026

Congratulations to Te Maia on his admission to the Bar!

Te Maia joined our Property team last year after completing his Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Commerce. Since joining the firm, he has hit the ground running, bringing a calm and considered approach to what can often be a stressful time in our clients’ lives.

We are incredibly proud to celebrate this important milestone and look forward to watching Te Maia’s career continue to go from strength to strength.

04/05/2026

When a loved one passes away, knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming.

We’ve put together a helpful guide covering important steps like locating the will, managing the estate, and understanding the role of an executor or administrator.

Learn more in our latest article below. If you need advice or support, please get in touch.

A practical guide to the key steps after a loved one dies, including locating a will, probate, estate administration, and executor duties.

23/04/2026

⛳️ Our directors John and Andrew enjoyed a unique day out at the Powerade G9 Stadium Golf at Eden Park, hosted by Donaldson Brown Insurance Brokers and joined by our friends at ASB Bank.

Taking shots from inside the stadium made it anything but your average round of golf, spirits were high, but the golfing was a bit hit and miss!

Huge thanks to everyone involved for a memorable day. Would highly recommend giving it a go this April.

02/04/2026

Meet Hayley O’Brien, one of our solicitors.

Hayley brings over a decade of experience supporting families through complex and often emotional situations. She graduated from the University of Otago with degrees in Law and Commerce and spent several years in Australia helping clients navigate all aspects of relationship breakdown, including financial and business matters.

Now based on the North Shore, Hayley is a respected and valued member of our litigation team, working alongside John Armstrong.

Known for her calm and practical approach, she takes pride in supporting clients through challenging times, helping them feel reassured and confident in the decisions they make.

We’re proud to have Hayley on the team.

30/03/2026

🏡 Buying property off the plans can be an exciting way to step into the market and secure a brand-new home or investment.

Like any property purchase, it’s important to understand the process and know what to look out for before you sign on the dotted line.

Doing your homework and getting good legal advice can make all the difference. Click here to learn more 👇

Thinking of buying off the plans in NZ? Understand the key risks, how to protect your deposit, and what to look for in your agreement.

22/03/2026

After more than a decade with Armstrong Murray, following her maternity leave Hannah Blewden has decided to stay in Cambridge to be closer to her family. It hasn’t been an easy decision, and she will be deeply missed by all of us.

Hannah joined us as a law clerk while studying at university and quickly progressed to Principal, becoming a popular, trusted and highly valued member of our team. She has built strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike and has always been incredibly supportive and generous with her time and expertise.

We are extremely proud of everything Hannah has achieved during her time with us and grateful for the many years she has dedicated to the firm. We wish her every success and happiness in this next chapter.

20/03/2026

🏡 Thinking about bidding at auction or making an offer on a property? Before you take the next step, make sure you’ve ticked these off your to-do list:

✔️ Confirm finance is approved for this specific property
✔️ Get an independent building report for peace of mind
✔️ Request a current LIM and have your lawyer review it
✔️ Order and review the property title documentation
✔️ Double-check the sale and purchase agreement
✔️ Make sure your deposit funds are ready to go
✔️ Talk to your KiwiSaver provider

Buying a home can feel overwhelming, but the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone.

Our experienced property team are here to guide you every step of the way so you can move with confidence.