Gifford Devine

25/10/2026

Our latest business briefs cover several legal changes for NZ businesses:

- Health and safety: From 1 April 2027, businesses with fewer than 20 staff will only need to focus on critical risks.
- AI at work: How to manage the confidentiality, privacy and IP risks of using AI tools.
- AI in the boardroom: Why directors can't rely on AI summaries of board papers.
- Consumer credit: New FMA reporting obligations for lenders, with penalties of up to $600,000.

Read the full briefs for the details. If you'd like to talk through what these changes could mean for your business, get in touch with our team.

New health and safety rules, AI risks at work and in the boardroom, and changes for consumer credit providers. Catch up on the latest legal updates for business.

28/09/2026

Big changes could be coming to how decisions get made for adults who can no longer make some decisions for themselves. The Law Commission wants to replace the current law with a new approach that puts the person's own wishes and values first, rather than what someone else decides is in their "best interests."

If you're a property manager or welfare guardian for a family member, or you think you might need to appoint one in future, read the full article on our website. If you'd like to talk through what it could mean for you, get in touch with our team.

A major law reform is coming for how decisions are made on behalf of adults who can no longer make some decisions for themselves. Here's what the Law Commission is recommending, and why.

18/09/2026

It's tempting to think a will is just a form to fill in. A recent High Court case shows how a small drafting mistake, easily made in a DIY will kit, can turn into significant legal costs, long delays, and real stress for grieving families.

Spending a little more time getting it right the first time almost always costs less than sorting it out later. If your will hasn't been checked by a professional, our Wills team at Gifford Devine can help you get it right, contact us today.

A shop-bought DIY will kit seemed like a simple, low-cost way for Joan Bourne to divide her estate. One misunderstood legal term meant her executors ended up in the High Court.

03/09/2026

A huge congratulations to Kezia and the Havelock North High School Girls’ First XI!

Kezia has been coaching the team at the Jenny Hair Cup in Wellington this week, and after a fantastic tournament, the girls have made the top four and will play off for third and fourth place today.

Well done, Kezia and team! We’ll be cheering you on!

01/09/2026

If you provide housing for farm workers, contract milkers or sharemilkers, you're a residential landlord in the eyes of the law - and m**h contamination is a growing risk area to manage.

From April 2026 new regulations set out when testing and decontamination are mandatory, and courts have shown how much a baseline test matters if a dispute ever arises. Read more on our website (link in bio/comments).

Farm owners providing worker accommodation are legal landlords, and m**hamphetamine contamination is a growing risk area to manage. Here's what the law requires, why baseline testing matters, and how to protect yourself from disputes down the track.

20/08/2026

The new NZ-India Free Trade Agreement could open real doors for red meat, horticulture, forestry and wool exporters as India's middle class grows. It still has to clear Parliament — and success will come down to managing contracts, payment terms and biosecurity right from the start. Head to our website to read the full breakdown.

The new NZ-India Free Trade Agreement could open real doors for red meat, horticulture, forestry and wool. Here's what the deal means for rural New Zealand, and why success will come down to more than just the signing.

03/08/2026

Buying or selling property? The standard Agreement for Sale and Purchase has recently changed, and it’s important to understand what those updates could mean for you.

Read our latest article to learn more before you sign.

Need advice specific to your property? Get in touch with our team for support.

The revised Law Association Agreement for Sale and Purchase features new warranties for building work and unaltered forms, updated finance and OIO conditions, and altered compensation claims.

27/07/2026

Graduate Opportunities – Applications Now Open

Start your legal career with one of Hawke's Bay's leading law firms.

Gifford Devine is now accepting applications for Graduate Solicitor positions commencing late February 2027.

With offices in Hastings, Havelock North, Napier and Waipawa, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside experienced lawyers across a broad range of practice areas while building the foundations of a successful legal career.

We're looking for graduates who:

- Have completed (or are completing) their LLB.
- Have strong academic results and excellent communication skills.
- Are motivated, curious and enjoy working as part of a team.
- Have a connection to Hawke's Bay or are keen to build their career in the region.

As part of your graduate programme, we'll support you through your Professional Legal Studies (PROFS) if you haven't already completed them.

To apply, please send your:
- Cover letter
- CV
- Academic transcript
to [email protected]

Applications close Monday, 24 August 2026.

If you're looking for a firm that offers genuine mentoring, early responsibility and the opportunity to build a long-term career in Hawke's Bay, we'd love to hear from you.

23/07/2026

Planning a subdivision? The legal structure you choose can have a big impact on how your development works.

Our latest article looks at three types of agreements commonly used in subdivisions, and explores some of the pros and cons of each approach.

Read the full article on our website.

Modern developers use residents' societies, unit titles, or land covenants to manage new subdivisions. We take a closer look at the benefits and challenges of each type of agreement.

08/07/2026

Are you keeping up with the legal and regulatory changes affecting businesses?
From employment and commercial law updates to changes that may affect business operations, staying informed matters.
Our latest Business Briefs article highlights key legal developments and practical considerations for New Zealand businesses — helping you stay ahead of changes that could impact your organisation.

Updates on NZ unconscionable conduct enforcement, foreign investment reform, new privacy rules, and key employment law changes.