The Privacy Act 2020 came into force on 1 December 2020, replacing the Privacy Act 1993. It has introduced new requirements for New Zealand businesses (including farms) and organisations to give greater protections for individuals.
Still fit for purpose for farm ownership and succession?
Trusts have long been the preferred vehicle for farm ownership. Historically, holding a property through a trust meant that ownership did not change on the death of the farmer and, therefore, any death duties could be avoided during the generational change.
Leasing of farms, orchards and cropping land is becoming more common. It is a good way for farming operations to expand without capital commitments involved in buying land. For landowners, it can be a useful way to retain ownership of the capital but give away the day-to-day farming operations, either through a desire to semi-retire or to hold the farming asset for a period while family or continued ownership issues are resolved.
A warning from Insurance Council of New Zealand: Is your property fully insured? Also, we consider the implications of Stage 2 of the Residential Tenancies Act changes, now in force. Now that it is more difficult to remove an unwanted tenant from your rental property, it is crucial to do your due diligence on a prospective tenant, but be aware of their right to privacy.
Some older homeowners are seeking ‘reverse mortgages’ from their lenders in order to release the growing equity in their property. Here’s what you need to know.
An examination of a variety of clauses to suit different situations when rent is up for review in commercial leases.
The Trusts Act 2019 came into force on 30 January 2021. One major topic of discussion arising from the new Act has been the provisions governing disclosure of trust information to beneficiaries.
Trustees’ expenses should be reimbursed, but no need for extravagance. When trustees incur expenses, they are not expected to be out of pocket in carrying out their responsibilities. Trustees are entitled to use trust money or to get a refund from the trust fund if they incur expenses in carrying out their duties.
Extension of Māori Land Court jurisdiction. A significant change to the succession laws relating to Māori land came into force on 6 February 2021 (Waitangi Day).
In 2020, the government introduced a raft of legislation to provide temporary relief for businesses struggling to navigate the effects of the Covid pandemic. Some relief measures, such as the safe harbour for company directors, have already expired, while others will expire this year unless they are renewed.
Hastings – 06 873 0420 | 206 Queen Street East Hastings 4156
Havelock North – 06 873 0420 | 1 Havelock Road, Havelock North 4130
Waipawa – 06 857 8040 | 47 Ruataniwha Street, Waipawa 4210