Blog - Harkness Henry Lawyers

Developer Contributions

3 April 2024

A development contribution is a one-off charge imposed on new developments as a contribution to any growth-related costs relating to infrastructure required for the development. The reason that these are imposed is commonly to contribute to a cities long-term growth.

Personal Liability as an Employer? Damn straight.

25 March 2024

Many ‘employers’ in New Zealand, operate under a corporate identity through a limited liability company. There is a common assumption if a company becomes insolvent, that directors or those that influence or control the company, are protected by the ‘corporate veil’ – and can avoid personal consequences. In some circumstances, as this article explores, this common assumption is wrong.

Summer Clerk Experiences

20 March 2024

Harkness Henry recently welcomed three outstanding Clerks to our 2023/2024 Summer Clerk programme. The Clerks worked in a variety of practice areas including employment, property and commercial law, resource management law, trust law, dispute resolution, estate planning and estate administration. Mia was primarily based in our Cambridge office, while Ollie and Devony in our Hamilton office.

Residential Building Work – What Obligations Will My Builder Owe?

27 February 2024

A person’s home is their castle, so the saying goes. However, sometimes constructing the castle can be a dauting process. It is important, therefore, to know about the protections that exist for residential consumers. In this article, we summarise some key documents a residential consumer should expect to receive from the builder during the course a building project.

Environment Court Appeals

7 February 2024

What is an Environment Court appeal? When can I appeal a decision? What does an appeal involve? These are common questions that we are asked regularly. Whether you are contemplating an appeal or seeking clarity on the nuances of resource management law, this article shares insights into the key considerations of an Environment Court appeal.

Key differences between a tender agreement and an auction agreement

25 January 2024

In New Zealand, the process of purchasing land can involve different types of agreements, and two common methods are tender agreements and auction agreements. Set out in this article are the key differences between the two.

Jolly or Jail – employment obligations over the season of cheer

13 December 2023

Tis the season to be jolly and avoid jail! Whether blowing off steam at the Christmas Party or closing the doors for some well-earned rest and recuperation, employers need to be on their toes to ensure that they meet their legal obligations. This short article explores some of the statutory obligations employers have.

Mental health, employee conduct and performance – can it be managed?

20 November 2023

Disciplinary and performance management of employees in the workplace can be a difficult task depending on the circumstances. How does it change when mental health concerns are raised? In this article, our employment law team explores two cases that address these concerns.

Retirement Village Occupation Right Agreements – Key considerations for potential residents

16 October 2023

Are you or your loved one thinking of moving into a retirement village? Moving into a retirement village is a big life decision – is the move right for you? This article outlines some key things to consider before making your next big life decision.

What is a private plan change?

4 October 2023

The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) allows for any person to make a request for a district plan to be amended. This is known as a private plan change. In this article we explain what a private plan change is, and what the process involves.