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AWS Legal Providing legal advice to our communities for over 130 years! Hanan, Arthur & Co came to being in 1935.

OUR HISTORY

It is perhaps credit to the founding fathers that the practice has grown to be what it is today. Watson & McNab – which later become Watson & Watson – was established in 1880, producing such notable figures as Sir Robert McNab, who became Minister of Justice, and Neil Watson, Mayor of Invercargill for nine years. In 1977, Trevor Savage, who went on to serve as Southland Coroner for many years, joined the practice as Partner, and the firm was renamed Watson & Savage. As well as several Judges and political luminaries, Partner Ralph Hanan was Mayor of Invercargill, before becoming Minister of Justice and Attorney General. Partner Colin Fraser was appointed High Court Judge, Patrick Toomey, a District Court Judge, and Mervyn Rodgers became Secretary-General of the New Zealand Law Society. In 1984, the Watson & Savage and Hanan Arthur & Co merged to form Arthur Watson Savage – the largest legal practice in Southland. In the early 1990s, we decided to focus more heavily on the southern business sector. Strategic recruitment and professional development saw our firm further hone its specialist knowledge in property development, company law and corporate structuring. In the mid-90s, again, we accurately predicted the rural-driven economic boom. Positioning ourselves to support this growth sector has not only been professionally rewarding, but has allowed our firm to extend its expertise and reputation nationally and internationally. A decade on AWS Legal is one of the top business and private client practices in the South Island, providing support to leading lights in the southern business community. We also have a significant private client base, who entrust us with their personal legal needs, from property transactions and asset protection, to estate planning and family law.

Meet the Faces of AWS Legal!This month we're introducing Rebecca Gooby, Associate in our Employment and Commercial Teams...
26/10/2026

Meet the Faces of AWS Legal!

This month we're introducing Rebecca Gooby, Associate in our Employment and Commercial Teams.

Rebecca joined AWS Legal in 2021 after completing a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Psychology,at the University of Otago. Since then, she has built her experience across a wide range of employment and commercial matters, bringing a considered and practical approach to her work with clients.

Rebecca is also a Certificate Holder with the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI) and conducts independent workplace investigations into complaints and allegations, helping organisations navigate complex and often sensitive situations fairly and professionally.

Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys reading, cooking and travelling, particularly when it involves exploring the outdoors, as well as spending time with friends and family.

If you need practical advice on an employment or commercial matter, Rebecca and the AWS Legal team are here to help.
https://www.awslegal.co.nz/people/rebecca-gooby/

Changes to sick leave are on the horizon, what could this mean for your business?As New Zealand’s employment leave setti...
22/10/2026

Changes to sick leave are on the horizon, what could this mean for your business?

As New Zealand’s employment leave settings evolve, there may be implications for your workplace.

If you have questions about how upcoming changes could affect your business, talk to the AWS Legal Employment team.

Thinking about adding a granny flat to your property?New rules introduced this year mean certain standalone dwellings of...
20/10/2026

Thinking about adding a granny flat to your property?

New rules introduced this year mean certain standalone dwellings of up to 70 square metres can now be built without a building consent, provided they meet the required criteria.

While that may make the process simpler, it doesn't mean homeowners can forget about compliance altogether. Council notification, a Project Information Memorandum (PIM), Building Code requirements and local planning rules can still come into play.

It's also worth thinking beyond the build itself. Keeping good records and making sure everything has been completed correctly could make a real difference when it comes time to sell, particularly if a future buyer needs to arrange insurance or finance.

A granny flat can be a great addition to your property, but it pays to understand the bigger picture before you get started.

Buying or selling a home is a big move, and there can be a lot to navigate along the way.Whether you're stepping onto th...
14/10/2026

Buying or selling a home is a big move, and there can be a lot to navigate along the way.

Whether you're stepping onto the property ladder for the first time, moving into your next home, buying an investment property or preparing to sell, having the right legal support can help make the process clearer from the outset.

At AWS Legal, our Residential Property team works with buyers and sellers across Southland and Central Otago, providing practical advice and guidance throughout the process. From reviewing agreements and completing due diligence through to handling the final details of settlement, we're here to help keep things moving and make sure you understand what's happening along the way.

Thinking about buying or selling? Talk to our Residential Property team about your next move.

"GIVEAWAY TIME! Missed out on the SOLD-OUT Kids Race at Clyde Classic? We’ve got you covered! 🙌We’re giving away 2 entri...
13/10/2026

"GIVEAWAY TIME!

Missed out on the SOLD-OUT Kids Race at Clyde Classic?

We’ve got you covered! 🙌

We’re giving away 2 entries to the sold-out AWS Legal Kids Race!

To enter:

🏃‍♀️ Comment below
👍 Like this post
✅ Follow Clyde Classic and AWS Legal

🎉 Now you're in the draw and could be joining us on the start line on 31 October.

Entries close soon, so get commenting, liking and following for your chance to win!

Good luck!"

Meet the Faces of AWS Legal!This month we're introducing Allanah, a member of our Rural and Agribusiness Team, based in ...
11/10/2026

Meet the Faces of AWS Legal!

This month we're introducing Allanah, a member of our Rural and Agribusiness Team, based in Invercargill.

A born and bred Southlander, Allanah joined AWS Legal in 2017 after completing her studies at Otago University. With a background in trust and property law, she now focuses primarily on farm succession planning and restructures, bringing valuable big-picture thinking to complex rural matters.

Clear communication is central to Allanah's approach. She takes pride in turning complex legal processes into plain English, helping clients feel comfortable, informed and confident throughout the process. She also works with first-home buyers, guiding them through the property journey with the same care and attention.

Outside of work, Allanah is heavily involved in the local netball community as a coach, umpire and player, and is a member of the Netball South board.

If you're looking for practical, straightforward advice on rural, succession or property matters, Allanah is here to help. https://www.awslegal.co.nz/people/allanah-robb/

Thanks for sharing your experience. We love hearing that clear communication and great support helped make such an impor...
08/10/2026

Thanks for sharing your experience. We love hearing that clear communication and great support helped make such an important milestone that much easier.

If you're planning a move, get in touch with the AWS Legal team today.

Little legs. Big impact.AWS Legal is delighted to sponsor the 3km Kids Run at the upcoming Clyde Classic, a fantastic ev...
08/10/2026

Little legs. Big impact.

AWS Legal is delighted to sponsor the 3km Kids Run at the upcoming Clyde Classic, a fantastic event that brings together fitness, family, and community spirit in the heart of Central Otago.

Starting and finishing at Clyde Primary School, every entry helps make a difference, with 25% of all registration fees going directly back to the school. Last year's event saw an incredible $11,500 donated to support educational opportunities and school facilities.

Our own Eugene Roud, Partner and proud dad, is passionate about supporting initiatives that encourage young people to get active, have fun, and be part of something special.

From future athletes to first-time runners, we're excited to cheer on every child taking part in this year's Kids Run.

See you at the starting line

We don’t often have opportunities like this at AWS Legal - in Alexandra, Central Otago!With a planned senior retirement,...
07/10/2026

We don’t often have opportunities like this at AWS Legal - in Alexandra, Central Otago!

With a planned senior retirement, we’re looking for a Senior Associate+ to step into practice leadership with a clear pathway to Partnership.

Lead great work. Mentor awesome people. Help shape the future of your firm.

We know career moves like this take thought & we’re always open to a confidential chat.

Know someone? Or curious yourself? Reach out or share

*Confidential conversation: Rachel Lindsay (Board Chair) 027 408 2621
*Role details & apply here: https://nz.seek.com/job/95097206
*Sign on bonus for direct applications

Step-tember 2026 is a wrapDuring the past month, over a 2-week period, our team stepped up to the challenge, clocking th...
30/09/2026

Step-tember 2026 is a wrap

During the past month, over a 2-week period, our team stepped up to the challenge, clocking thousands of kilometres, embracing some friendly competition, and making wellbeing a priority.

Congratulations to our Alexandra Walking Sensation Team for taking out the Team Championship

and to our individual winners:

1st - Lachie Nicholas - 400,195 steps
2nd - Stefanie McKenzie - 321,302 steps
3rd - Robyn Kitto - 282,671 steps

A huge well done to everyone who participated. Whether you were chasing the leaderboard or simply getting moving each day, every step counted.

Address

80 Don Street
Invercargill
9810

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+6432111370

Website

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