News and views | Aspiring Law

Proposed Changes to Health and Safety Law

On 9 February 2026, the Government introduced the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill, aimed at concentrating attention on the most serious risks while easing compliance burdens. The Bill proposes significant changes to the way health and safety is regulated in New Zealand workplaces.

Employment & HR Workplace policies
“Prenup” Pitfalls Every Couple Should Avoid

Prenups aren’t just Hollywood headlines – they’re quietly becoming a part of everyday Kiwi relationships and in this article we discuss some common mistakes that can render a prenup ineffective.

Relationship & Family Relationship property
Do you really need terms of engagement as a business?

When you’re starting or running a business, paperwork often sits at the bottom of the priority list. Learn more about what terms actually do and why businesses get caught out.

Business & Commercial
District Plan Rules and Why They Matter

When purchasing property many people focus on title, price, and finance. However, district plan rules are also important and can significantly affect what you can do with your land.

Residential property Buying residential property
Behind the Scenes

Get to know our law graduates Ash Biggs and Jessica Smith, and hear some highlights from exciting events Graeme Randall, Henry Taylor and Janice Hughes have taken part of recently.
Changes to Employment Law – What You Need to Know

The Employment Relations Amendment Act has now received Royal Assent and came into force on 21 February 2026. These changes represent some of the most significant shifts to employment law in recent years, and it’s important for both employers and employees to understand the implications.

Employment & HR
What QLDC’s Urban Intensification Variation Means for Property Owners

The Queenstown Lakes District Council has approved major planning changes through its Urban Intensification Variation. These changes will affect building heights, subdivision potential, and the future character of neighbourhoods across Queenstown and Wānaka. This article outlines the key changes and what they mean for property owners, developers, and the wider community.

Residential property
The Cost of Default

A recent court decision highlights the serious financial consequences of failing to settle a property purchase once a sale and purchase agreement becomes unconditional. In this case, a purchaser was ordered to pay approximately $1.1 million in damages after defaulting on settlement.

Residential property Buying residential property