Corcoran French

03/06/2026

New environmental rules are now affecting rural landowners, farmers, forestry operators, and marine farm businesses across New Zealand.

Several important environmental law changes are now in effect. Our latest article written by Senior Solicitor, Jonathon Sylvester, explains what is changing and what it could mean for you!

Read the article here https://cflaw.co.nz/about-us/news/new-environmental-standards-for-rural-land-what-nz-farmers-and-landowners-need-to-know-in-2026/

28/05/2026

Our Senior Associate, Mat Munro, recently brought attention to the first major Tenancy Tribunal decision under New Zealand’s new pet rules.

The recent case confirms that landlords cannot refuse pets based on general concerns or “what if” scenarios alone. Landlords must have reasonable, evidence based reasons linked to the specific pet and property.

In this Christchurch case, the Tribunal ruled in favour of tenants who wanted to keep a puppy, finding the landlord’s concerns did not meet the legal threshold for refusing consent. The decision reinforces that landlords can no longer rely on “no pet” approaches or general concerns without proper evidence connected to the specific pet and property.

21/05/2026

A beautiful morning for our Pink Ribbon Breakfast 💗

We’re so proud to share that we raised $920 in support of breast cancer awareness.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and donated, and a very special thank you to the lovely ladies who cooked and prepared this morning’s delicious breakfast.

Breast Cancer Foundation NZ

13/05/2026

At Corcoran French, giving back to our community is something we truly value.

Through our Ronald McDonald House South Island sponsorship, 37 families had a place to call home while their child received hospital treatment in 2025, providing 190 nights of comfort, care and support.

Thank you to RMH for the difference you make every day!

11/05/2026

This fantastic event brings people together to raise funds and awareness, all while supporting meaningful causes and celebrating the incredible mahi of UC law students! So proud to be involved!

05/05/2026

Some very exciting announcements across the firm today, with a number of well earned promotions.

It’s always great to take a moment to recognise the people behind the work and the contribution they make to our team and our clients each day. These promotions reflect not only individual effort, but the strength of our wider team across different offices and practice areas.

We’re proud to see them stepping into new roles and continuing to build their careers with us, we’re looking forward to what’s ahead!

05/05/2026

We’re very proud to be a sponsor of the Kaiapoi Art Expo for another year, as they celebrate an incredible 20 years of showcasing creativity within our community!

A fabulous chance to support talented artists and be part of a very special milestone.

Event info:
Opening Night: Friday 17th July
Expo Weekend: Saturday 18th July, 10am–5pm & Sunday 19th July, 10am–4pm
Where: Kaiapoi Club

21/04/2026

Changes to workplace leave in New Zealand could be on the way!

Solicitor, Grace Aislabie breaks down the proposed Employment Leave Bill, which is set to replace the Holidays Act 2003 and simplify how leave entitlements work.

The Bill introduces some key changes, including leave accruing from day one, updates to public holiday entitlements and a simpler way to calculate leave payments.

A very helpful read for employers, employees, and anyone involved in payroll! https://cflaw.co.nz/our-firm/news/from-legal-maze-to-lazy-days-holidays-act-to-take-leave/

09/04/2026

We’ve officially launched Immigration Law!

We’re thrilled to have Adele Mitchell on board, bringing 20 years of experience in immigration law. Adele has worked in both private practice and at Immigration New Zealand, so she is truly an expert.

Whether it’s visa applications, appeals or more complex immigration matters, Adele combines deep expertise with a empathetic approach, supporting clients through what can often be a stressful process.

If you are in need of immigration support, Adele is here and ready to help!

Corcoran French Lawyers offer legal expertise in personal and business law. Contact our Christchurch, Kaiapoi, and West Coast team today!

01/04/2026

A big congratulations to Kaitlyn Ferris on officially becoming a Legal Executive!

Having started with us as a Receptionist, then a Estates Secretary in our Kaiapoi office, this promotion is a true reflection of Kaitlyn’s progression within the firm.

It’s been fantastic to see her develop in her role and take this next step in her career!