September 28, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

A Step Forward: Cyclone Gabrielle Voluntary Buy-Out Policy Adopted

Written by Amy Cowan Updated: 28 September 2023  Both Hastings and Napier District Council’s confirmed in mid-September 2023 that a Voluntary Buy-Out Policy has been adopted to enable the voluntary purchase of eligible Category 3 residential properties in Hawkes’ Bay.  This is a cost-sharing scheme with the Government and negotiations are still underway.  This programme will not only allow for the voluntary buy-out it will also provide funding for urgent recovery priorities including flood mitigation, roading, and bridge repairs throughout the region. To...

August 28, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

Protecting Your Assets: Why Legal Advice Matters for ‘Pre-Nup’ Agreements

Written by Alex Fanning A recent decision in the Napier High Court, WL v AJ [2023] NZHC 703, is a timely reminder that seeking independent legal advice is crucial for a pre-nuptial agreement (pre-nup) to be valid and enforceable. The decision also demonstrates the consequences of not getting the right advice. Understanding the Case Let’s take a look at the case involving Mr W and Ms A. They began their relationship in 2000, and on 3 July 2001, Mr W bought a home...

August 4, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

Changes to First Home Buyer Schemes to allow for purchasing of existing homes and extend household income caps

Written by Lois McLintock Updated: 3 August 2023  The government’s Progressive Home Ownership Scheme (PHO) is set to reach more potential first home buyers with changes being announced to the scheme earlier this week. These changes will take effect from 14 August 2023 and are good news if you are a first home buyer. The PHO was established in 2020 and is administered via two pathways. The First is Te Au Taketake,  the pathway for Māori and Iwi to access the scheme. Te...