Read the latest news, articles
and clients stories from Bramwell Bate.

It’s our job to know the law. We stay at the top
of our game so you can stay at the top of yours.

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...

May 24, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

Positive Changes to Regulations for First Home Buyers

In August 2022, we wrote an article explaining the initial changes made to CCCFA Regulations. Further changes have been announced this month, which will be good news if you’re trying to get on the property ladder. In short, how you spend your money no longer limits your opportunity to apply for a mortgage. If you were worried how your discretionary spending will affect your chances of getting a mortgage for your first home, recent amendments to CCCFA Regulations may ease some concerns. This...

May 23, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

An important step in recognising the rights of New Zealand’s rainbow communities

Next month a new process of self-identification comes into force which will replace the existing Family Court process.  Under the new Births, Deaths, Marriages, and Relationship Registration Act people can make an application to amend the sex recorded on their birth certificate, making it easier for people to have their gender recognised as different to the one assigned at birth. The Act also recognises that the Court no longer has the right to make that choice for people. In doing...

May 23, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

Cyclone Gabrielle: Funding Update

Written by Chloe Smart  It has been a tough start to the year for the North Island, with rural communities and primary industries hit hard by the extreme weather events. At the time of writing, the Government has invested $890 million into repair works, silt clean-up, help for growers and farmers, business support, and getting schools, bridges, and roads back open. But there’s still more to do. On 14 May 2023, the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) announced additional funding to support...

Bramwell Bate Bach
May 12, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

Cyclone Gabrielle & tenancies: know your rights

Written by Edward Bostock and Kelly Henderson Originally published in The Profit One of the most significant impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle has been the damage and destruction to commercial and residential properties in Hawke’s Bay. Building Officers are completing rapid building assessments on properties affected by the Cyclone. To date, there are 100 red stickered properties (meaning the property has been seriously damaged) and 712 yellow stickered properties (meaning the property has been damaged and may need to be temporarily vacated) in...

April 20, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

Land Acquisition under the Public Works Act

Written by Amy Cowan In March 2023, the High Court directed the Hastings District Council to renegotiate suitable compensation for a landowner in relation to the Council acquiring land for roading and storm water detention as part of wider urban development.  This may have left you thinking about how the Council acquires land it needs for future development. What is the Public Works Act 1981? The Public Works Act 1981 gives the Crown, Councils and utility operators power to acquire privately owned land...

February 28, 2023 In Bramwell Bate News By Cherie Hannam

Initial Funding Package for Cyclone Gabrielle Recovery Announced

Written by Chloe Smart (Updated 28 February 2023) Cyclone Gabrielle caused unprecedented flooding and damage as it made its way across the North Island earlier this month. Cyclone Recovery Minister Grant Robertson has announced details of the first round of funding available to the primary sector through the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI), which will be welcomed by local farmers and growers to help begin their recovery. What support is available? Farmers, growers, and whenua Māori owners affected by Cyclone Gabrielle can...