Rural, Māori & Specialist

Agribusiness is in our DNA. We support farmers, investors and service providers across the agricultural sector. From farm and livestock transactions to financing, joint ventures, and supply agreements, we safeguard investments, manage risk and help your business grow. With decades of experience across dairy, sheep, beef, and specialty crops, we handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your land.

Since kiwifruit first took root in the Bay of Plenty, we’ve advised orchardists and industry leaders on every stage of their growth and global success. We act for growers and post-harvest entities on orchard transactions, leases, ownership structures, joint ventures, licensing, resource consents, and all commercial arrangements. Partnering closely with Zespri, we manage their annual release of kiwifruit licences and provide strategic legal advice. Our team also has expertise in apples, avocados, feijoa, berry fruit, hops and more, helping protect investments and support growth.

For over a century, our firm has championed Māori land rights and economic interests. Today, we continue that legacy and provide expert advice to iwi, hapu, and Māori entities. We assist with governance, land and asset development, investment structures, Treaty of Waitangi asset settlements, property transactions and commercial arrangements. We understand the dynamics of collective ownership and tikanga, and are proud to work with Māori entities to achieve prosperity and sustainable growth.

With deep local knowledge and the ability to speak fluent Mandarin, our legal experts help New Zealand businesses big and small to navigate the Chinese market. From cross-border acquisitions and joint ventures to corporate structuring, e-commerce strategies, distribution channels and trade matters, we provide hands-on legal advice that bridges both cultures and legal systems. We also support Chinese investors seeking to establish or grow their presence in New Zealand.

Climate change and sustainability are reshaping every sector, from agribusiness to manufacturing and export-focused industries. We help businesses understand and manage legal risks, meet regulatory requirements, and take advantage of opportunities in a low-emissions economy. From carbon reporting and sustainability certifications to domestic climate legislation and environmental compliance, we provide clear, practical advice that will keep your business ahead of the curve.

From initial pitch to exit, we help Kiwi entrepreneurs turn great ideas into thriving businesses. Whether it’s setting up your company, raising capital, structuring investments, protecting intellectual property, drafting contracts or managing employment obligations, we provide practical, accessible legal advice. We also act as a useful sounding board throughout your start up journey. Once your venture is built on a solid legal foundation you can focus on growth, innovation and its long-term financial success.

Charities and not-for-profits are the backbone of our communities, and we’re proud to support them. Many of our Partners and senior lawyers serve on charitable organisations, giving us practical insight into governance and operational issues. From choosing the right structure and registering as a charity, to drafting trust deeds and rules, we will help you comply with the law so your organisation can focus on making a difference.

New legislation is reshaping how incorporated societies operate, and our team is at the forefront of this change. Our staff are among New Zealand’s leading voices on the Incorporated Societies Act 2022. We provide practical advice and clear strategies for societies who are updating their constitutions to comply with new rules coming into force in April 2026. We guide organisations through re-registration, governance requirements, and ongoing compliance, helping them adapt confidently and continue their important work. 

Managing personal and sensitive information is critical for businesses and organisations. We advise on all privacy obligations, including how to handle information requests, respond to breaches, and ensure compliance with the Privacy Act. Our team will help you implement robust processes, mitigate risks and navigate complex situations with confidence, so you can protect your organisation’s reputation and maintain the trust of clients, customers, staff and stakeholders.