Gifford Devine is now accepting applications for our *2026/2027 Summer Clerkship Programme*. This is a great opportunity for law students to gain practical experience, work alongside our team of lawyers, and get a real insight into life at a leading Hawke’s Bay law firm.
If you are interested in joining us for the summer, please submit your application to Greg Howie.
*Applications close 30 April 2026.*
Budget 2026
Taking a look at Budget 2026, including the focus on a return to surplus by 2028-29, and major spending on health, education, infrastructure, and fuel cost relief.
Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill
A closer look at anticipated changes within the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill, focusing on reduced compliance for small firms and new critical risk standards
Business briefs
Updates on NZ unconscionable conduct enforcement, foreign investment reform, new privacy rules, and key employment law changes.
Over the fence
We take a look at: the new biosecurity action plan from the Ministry of Primary Industries; a new ‘gateway test’ to determine whether an individual is an employee or a contractor in terms of employment law; and Wills and Enduring Power of Attorney – and the importance of both for the rural sector.
KiwiSaver changes open the door to first farm ownership
The government has announced important changes to KiwiSaver that will make it easier for farmers and rural workers to use their KiwiSaver to buy their first farm. These reforms acknowledge the unique way in which farms are owned and operated in New Zealand.
WorkSafe’s heightened focus on farm safety
WorkSafe New Zealand has promised greater attention to safety in the agricultural sector when it announced the new four-year ‘Statement of Intent’ on 4 December 2025.
An agreement to lease and a deed of lease
Understand the critical differences between an agreement to lease and a deed of lease in New Zealand commercial property, including assignment rights, bank financing requirements, and the importance of formalising day-to-day management obligations.
Caveats
Learn about the legal implications of caveats in New Zealand property law, including how they protect interests, the strict requirements for a “caveatable interest,” and the potential risks of compensation claims for improper registration.
Options to buy a property during a cost of living crisis
Discover alternative property ownership structures in New Zealand to combat high house prices, including parental lending, co-ownership with property sharing agreements, and iwi-based shared equity schemes.
Summer Clerkship Programme – Applications Now Open
Gifford Devine is now accepting applications for our *2026/2027 Summer Clerkship Programme*. This is a great opportunity for law students to gain practical experience, work alongside our team of lawyers, and get a real insight into life at a leading Hawke’s Bay law firm.
If you are interested in joining us for the summer, please submit your application to Greg Howie.
*Applications close 30 April 2026.*