Sharon Stark Lont Barristers and Solicitors

17/12/2025

A huge thank you to the amazing people who work together to do what we do. It’s always so nice to have a meal together to celebrate.

10/12/2025

I think that we all deserve a good break away from work to spend time with our families and friends, despite pressure to keep working and answering demands from whatever industry we work in. What are your thoughts?

| Are our summer breaks too long - and how did they become a Kiwi institution?

Full story ⬇

08/12/2025

01/12/2025

CONGRATULATIONS to Kirsten Hopkins! Our computer assistant ( random number generator) drew your entry and you have won the beautiful Christmas cake. Please message us your delivery address and we will get the cake out to you , with our very best wishes.

01/12/2025

As of today, it's easier for tenants to keep pets in New Zealand. Here's what you need to know 🏡 🐾

🔑 From 1 December 2025, you can ask your landlord for written consent to have a pet in your home.
✅ Your landlord must say yes to this request, unless they have reasonable grounds to say no, like property suitability or bylaw restrictions.
✍️ Your landlord must respond to your request within 21 days. If they don't, or they say no without a good reason, they could be fined up to $1,500.
💸 If consent to have a pet is given, your landlord can charge you a pet bond of up to two weeks' rent. They can also set reasonable conditions, like requiring certain cleaning tasks at the end of your tenancy.
🙅 Your landlord can't ask you for a pet bond, or introduce new conditions, for any existing pets they approved before today.

In a recent survey, 60% of respondents who don't currently own a pet said they'd like to adopt one – which equates to roughly 440,000 New Zealand households. In an overpopulation crisis, these changes could be huge, getting more animals into the responsible, loving homes they deserve.

For more information, head to our site: https://www.spca.nz/news-and-events/news-article/new-pet-rules-for-renters

10/11/2025

22/10/2025

I’ve been so fortunate to mentor Atuatika through First Foundation this year. Not only is she very academically gifted, she’s one of the most lovely and generous students you could meet ….we need more upcoming lawyers like her. See you next year Raia… will miss us!

20/10/2025

Part 1… how I was scammed

20/10/2025

….. part 2… how not to be scammed

18/10/2025

Another really important reason to appoint an enduring power of attorney. It allows you to appoint someone of your own choice and to avoid problems such as that situation described below. Talk to us about setting up enduring powers of attorney.
Email [email protected] or phone 034717580

The Government has quietly dropped a subsidy for costs associated with managing the affairs of vulnerable people, leaving some with large bills.

08/10/2025

What NOT to do when instructing a lawyer