Smith and Partners Lawyers

24/10/2026

Subdividing a property isn't as straightforward as having a big enough section.

In this article, Jennifer Edwards breaks down what's actually involved. From checking whether it's feasible through to resource consent, the legal work, and how long the whole process can realistically take.

Read the full article here:

Thinking about subdividing your property in NZ? Learn what's involved, how long it can take and what to consider before you start.

19/10/2026

Meet Jonelle, Kandice, Annette, Lisa and Victoria, who make up the remainder of our property team.

No matter who you're speaking with, the approach stays the same: clear advice, and a process you actually understand.

18/10/2026

"How much deposit do you have?" means two different things depending on who's asking.

Fiona Taylor breaks down the difference between the deposit your bank talks about and the deposit your real estate agent asks for, and why mixing the two up can catch first home buyers off guard right when they need cash on hand.

Read the full article here:

When buying a home, the word "deposit" can be confusing because it is used in two different and distinct ways.

13/10/2026

Meet Wade, Kristal, Fiona and Jennifer who make up part of our property team.

No matter who you're speaking with, the approach stays the same: clear advice, and a process you actually understand.

10/10/2026

You've found the house, made the offer, and it's been accepted. Then comes the part nobody really explains, the legal side of actually getting it over the line.

Our property team helps you understand what's happening at each stage, from reviewing the agreement to settlement day. Don't be left guessing what a clause means or what's expected of you next.

Learn more about how we can help here:
https://www.smithpartners.co.nz/property-law

05/10/2026

Our social club got out for a good one recently.

We started with drinks at Definitely Maybe on K Rd, then shared plates at Coco's Cantina Restaurant & Bar and finished watching Atomic - Aotearoa’s Ultimate Femme Rock Supergroup live at Auckland Town Hall.

Great company, great food and a great night all round!

04/10/2026

Not every lawyer on our litigation team planned to become one.

29/09/2026

An outdated will can cause just as much trouble as no will at all.

It's one of seven estate planning mistakes we see come up again and again. Learn how to avoid them.

27/09/2026

We've launched The Mediation Hub. A new, independent mediation service.

Mediation isn't new to us, but this gives us a dedicated space to act as a neutral mediator rather than an advocate for one side.

A mediator sits down with both parties, keeps the conversation on track, and helps everyone work toward an agreement they're happy with. No judge, no ruling, just a structured conversation that puts the outcome in your hands.

Find out more here:

The Mediation Hub provides neutral, cost-effective mediation services across NZ. Contact us to resolve disputes amicably today!

21/09/2026

Our litigation team has learnt plenty about the law over the years. Ask them what stuck, and it's the people.