Aspiring Law

05/06/2026

Boundary Issues: Easier to Resolve Today Than Tomorrow

This recent case is a great reminder of the importance of understanding property boundaries when buying property.

What makes this dispute particularly interesting is that both owners were aware of the issue when they purchased their properties, and the encroachment had existed for more than 100 years. Despite this, the matter ultimately ended up before the courts, resulting in significant time, cost and stress for everyone involved.

The key lesson? If a boundary issue or encroachment is identified, it's often far better to investigate it thoroughly and work towards a solution while all parties are still willing and able to have constructive conversations.

Property issues rarely become simpler with time. Understanding the risks, seeking advice early, and addressing concerns proactively can help avoid costly disputes down the track.

🏠 Need advice? Call us on 03 443 0900 or email [email protected].

Read the full article here: https://www.stuff.co.nz/home-property/360986801/couples-battle-over-house-encroaches-their-property

04/06/2026

We’re delighted to announce David Gibbs as the winner of the Aspiring Law Community Champion Award.

David gives many hours of his time each week to Community Link Upper Clutha, our region’s support and connection centre, which provides vital services across the full welfare spectrum.

Choosing just one winner was no easy task, with so many wonderful people nominated for the difference they make in our community. We’re grateful for every one of them, and proud to celebrate their contribution.

Supporting this award is our way of recognising the locals who give so much to others. Communities thrive from the commitment of people like David, and we’re incredibly grateful for the time and effort they give.

Watch the moment David was taken by surprise live on today’s Radio Wānaka Breakfast Show and announced the winner.

19/05/2026

Our latest client newsletter has landed!

Keeping our clients informed is important to us, and our latest edition shares recent updates, insights, and useful information from our team.

Check it out here 👇
https://aspiringlaw.app.boltmail.nz/campaigns/qp897n8h50eee/web-version/jt5202jy858ff

08/05/2026

Renting with Pets Just Got Easier: What the new rules Mean for Tenants and Landlords

Recent changes to the Residential Tenancies Act mean it’s now easier for tenants to keep pets, but there are still rules on both sides.

Here’s what’s changed:
• Pets are no longer an automatic “no”
• Landlords must have a reasonable reason to refuse
• Pet bonds of up to 2 weeks’ rent are now allowed
• Reasonable conditions can be set (e.g. cleaning, limits on number/type of pets)
• Existing approved pets don’t need new consent or a pet bond

Why it matters:
This shift creates a fairer balance but also means more responsibility for both landlords and tenants to get things right.

Key takeaway:
Clear communication and getting everything in writing is essential.

🏠 If you’re unsure how the new rules apply to you, our property team is here to help. Call us on 03 443 0900 or email [email protected].

Read the full article below 👇

Recent changes to the Residential Tenancies Act have made it easier for tenants to keep pets in rental properties. Find out more about the changes and what it means if you own or rent residential property.

06/05/2026

Good News for Kiwis: Disputes Tribunal Limit Jumps to $60,000 - making dispute resolution faster and more cost effective

Key changes:
• Claim limit increased from $30,000 to $60,000
• This change applies to claims filed on or after 24 January 2026
• For claims exceeding $30,000, a new filing fee of $468 will apply

Why it matters:
More disputes can now be resolved through the Disputes Tribunal instead of the District Court, meaning faster, more cost-effective outcomes without the complexity of formal court proceedings.

Key takeaway:
If you have a higher-value dispute, the Tribunal is now a more accessible option, but strong preparation is still critical.

📞Need help? Call us on 03 443 0900 or email [email protected].

Read the full article below 👇

Navigating a legal dispute is often a balancing act between the amount of money owed and the cost of getting it back. Changes to the Disputes Tribunal aim to make justice more accessible and cost-effective.

29/04/2026

Life Changed? Your Will Should Too.

Did you know that a Will is invalidated by a subsequent marriage or a civil union unless the Will was made in contemplation of marriage to a specific person? However, a Will is not invalidated by a subsequent separation, meaning your ex may still be the main beneficiary under your Will. There are more nuanced rules in the event of a subsequent divorce.

If you have married or divorced since you last made a Will, now is a good time to review your affairs and put a new Will (and enduring powers of attorney) in place. If you are in a relationship, that is likely to result in a marriage or civil union, you can make a Will that contemplates the change in the relationship.

📞Need advice? Call us on 03 443 0900 or email [email protected].

24/04/2026

Missed the Deadline? Your society still has options.

Many incorporated societies were removed from the register after missing the 5 April 2026 re-registration deadline under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022. Removal can have significant consequences, such as losing access to bank accounts held in the society’s name.

The positive news is that restoration is still possible.

Societies that were removed can apply to be restored any time up to 6 April 2032. The official guidance is available here: https://is-register.companiesoffice.govt.nz/help-centre/restoring-an-incorporated-society-to-the-register/1908-act-societies/

📞Need support navigating the restoration process? Call us on 03 443 0900 or email [email protected].

23/04/2026

Potential relief for cross-lease property owners

A recent Court of Appeal decision has shed some light on what it really means for a neighbour to “reasonably” withhold consent under a cross-lease. This moves away from a long-standing legal test and signals a more flexible, fact-specific approach for property owners.

Key takeaways:
• A more flexible, context-driven approach applies when interpreting cross-lease consent clauses.
• Each situation should be looked at on its own facts, rather than applying a rigid test.
• The focus isn’t just on the impact to one neighbour, but on achieving a fair overall balance.
• Decisions should take into account the interests of all cross-lease owners, aiming for a reasonable outcome for everyone.

🏠 Need advice? Call us on 03 443 0900 or email [email protected].

Full story: https://lawnews.nz/featured/love-thy-neighbour-court-of-appeal-rules-on-what-reasonableness-means-in-cross-lease-consents/

15/04/2026

The Fruit Never Falls Far From the Tree.

A huge congratulations to Minka Boddé, our Family Team Lead, who yesterday celebrated her daughter Molly’s graduation from the same University she started her studies in as a foundation student. This is always a big milestone for any young person and it reflects perseverance, commitment and no doubt the same desire to make a difference her mother has.

At Aspiring Law, we’re proud to celebrate graduates on their journeys into the profession and wish Molly every success as she embarks on her legal career.