News & Views
2024
2024-04-24
New changes to how qualifications are used for Accredited Employer Work Visas
The changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) introduced many new rules, which can be confusing for employers to keep up with. One of the more especially confusing rules is about how qualifications are used, as its very easy to make a certain mistake.
2024-04-17
QCL’s Visionary Workspace: Fostering Legal Excellence and Teamwork
The past few years have been a rollercoaster for all of us, with the shift from office to home and then back again. It was an interesting ride, but during that time QCL was presented with an opportunity to move offices, which gave us the chance to rethink what a great workspace should be. We aimed for a place that complimented our culture - a place where you’d look forward to spending your day.
2024-04-15
Further promotions at Queen City Law
Along with the appointment of our new Directors, Queen City Law is also pleased to announce the promotion of Max Shin to Senior Associate, Aimee Young to General Manager, Harris Gu & Luke Beveridge to Senior Lawyer, Polina Boyarchenko to Senior Legal Executive and Alex Baldwin to Immigration Specialist.
2024-04-11
NZ millionaire immigration framework overdue for full engine rebore
The Coalition Government needs to get its thinking cap on and get the job done. Rather than being influenced by bureaucratic boffins with no real world experience, its ministers, spin doctors, and policy teams need to robustly engage with those at the coal face so that we end up with attractive rules that result in outcomes we want.
2024-04-10
Significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and the potential effects on migrant workers
If you currently hold an AEWV these changes will not impact your visa conditions or duration. However, it may affect how long you may be able to stay in New Zealand at one time. This is known as “maximum stay”, once a migrant worker reaches their maximum stay period, they must leave New Zealand.
2024-04-10
Guide to Post-Accreditation Checks for AEWV Employers
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) may complete checks to confirm you are meeting your obligations as an Accredited Employer. INZ will conduct checks on a proportion of accredited employers each year. A check can occur at any time while you are accredited; these checks can be both desk-based or through site visits.
2024-04-10
Major changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), and what does it mean for your company?
These changes do not impact current migrant workers' visa conditions or duration if they already hold an AEWV. However, it will affect how long they may be able to stay in New Zealand at one time. This is called the “maximum stay” and migrant workers must leave New Zealand once they have reached this limit. The changes will also affect new Job Check and AEWV applications submitted from April 7, 2024.
2024-04-03
The Immigration Law Summit 2024
This years Immigration Law Summit had quite the turnout from current and past Queen City Law staff members. Marcus was co-chairing the event, Brad and Harris presented on the Active Investor Plus category and Sonny also presented (with 48 hours notice!) on how employment disputes can cause liabilities to the immigration profession.
2024-03-18
Recent Changes to the Bright Line Test in New Zealand
The National party led New Zealand government has recently announced significant changes to the bright-line test (capital gains tax regime) for residential property sales. This is aimed at cooling the housing market and undoing the changes the previous Labour government enacted during their terms of government.
2024-03-13
Navigating the Maze of Commercial Leases: A Guide for Landlords and Tenants
Entering into a commercial lease can be a complex journey filled with legal intricacies and financial implications. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or a new business owner stepping into the world of commercial leases for the first time, understanding the nuances of these agreements is crucial.
2024-03-06
Applying for a Permanent Resident Visa
If you’ve been living in New Zealand as a Resident, then it may be time for you to consider applying for your Permanent Resident Visa (PRV). The main benefit to this is indefinite re-entry to New Zealand. This means you can travel freely in and out of New Zealand without having to worry about your ‘travel conditions’ expiring.
2024-03-01
Pwede ka na bang magapply ng Permanent Resident Visa?
Kung ikaw ay nakatira sa New Zealand na may hawak ng Resident Visa, baka oras na para magapply ka ng iyong Permanent Resident Visa o PRV. Ang pinakaunang pakinabang nito ay wala ng limitasyon o entry travel condition ang visa mo sa New Zealand. Ibig sabihin nito, maaari kang magbiyahe nang malaya papasok at labas ng New Zealand na hindi ka nagaalala tungkol sa pag-expire ng iyong ‘travel conditions’.
2024-02-28
Unlocking the Reserve Bank’s Proposed Debt to Income Restrictions – What Home Buyers and Property Investors Need to Know
The Reserve Bank has recently announced its proposal to introduce the debt to income (DTI) restrictions on residential mortgage lending. But what exactly does this mean, and how might it affect those looking to step into the property market?
2024-02-22
Conditions to a Contract
A sale and purchase agreement for residential property may include various conditions, depending on the purchaser’s circumstances and negotiations with their vendor, and may vary depending on the property.
Property Law
2024-02-21
Streamlining Overseas Investment Decisions: Balancing National Security and Economic Growth
In a move aimed at streamlining the process of overseas investment decisions, there are proposals to limit ministerial involvement to matters strictly related to national security only. Currently, ministers have the authority to make decisions regarding investments deemed to be in the national interest, but this responsibility is often delegated to the Overseas Investment Office (OIO). However, this system has been criticized for adding complexity and time to the decision-making process, leading to calls for reform.
Immigration Law
2024-02-19
We're Hiring: Receptionist
This busy role will include assisting multiple lawyers with administration tasks as well as standard receptionist duties. The perfect person will be someone who works well under pressure, has strong attention to detail, is a fast learner, self-motivating and takes initiative
2024-02-16
Minutes with Marcus: QCL Updates, Victoria St West Construction and a New Government
Marcus is back with his fourth episode of 'Minutes with Marcus'. In this episode he discusses exciting updates within QCL and its staff, the construction taking place on Victoria Street West and of course, our brand new government.
2024-02-14
How to come to New Zealand with the Accredited Employer Work Visa
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is a temporary work visa designed to ensure New Zealanders are first in line for jobs and where genuine skill or labour shortages exist, accredited employers can hire skilled migrants. This was introduced on July 4 2022.
Accredited Employer Work VisaImmigration Law
2024-02-12
Assisting Filipino Work Visa holders
Following the unfortunate liquidation of the ELE Group in December 2023, a silver lining has emerged. Queen City Law, New Zealand Labour Hire and Immigration New Zealand have come together to support the affected migrant workers, demonstrating the power of unity and compassion in times of crisis.
Work VisaImmigrationFilipino Workers
2024-02-09
Summer Law Clerkships at Queen City Law
Queen City Law takes on law clerks every year from November to February during the university summer break. This year, we were lucky to be joined by Otago and Auckland University students, Enna and Yolanda.
Summer Law Clerks
2024-02-09
We're Hiring: Senior Litigation Consultant or Existing Litigation Team
Queen City Law is looking to hire a full time highly skilled and motivated Senior Litigation Consultant or an existing Litigation Team. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leading and managing complex litigation cases, providing expert legal advice, and representing our clients in the courts.
Litigation & Dispute Resolution
2024-02-08
Welcome to the team, Hannah!
Queen City Law is excited to have Hannah join the team!
Immigration Law
2024-02-07
Selling Leaky Units (Q&A with Ray White's Grant Elliott)
Leaky buildings are buildings that require remedial work to weathertightness issues, whether or not it falls within a 10-year weathertightness guarantee. It may involve systemic failures in the building or may be isolated leaks from poor maintenance. They cost owners (and potentially buyers of leaky buildings) significant costs to remedy.
Property Law
2024-02-05
Queen City Law to present at the Property Law Conference 2024
The Law Association Property Law Conference will be held on 29 February 2024, at Four Points by Sheraton, Auckland - And Queen City Law's Senior Associate, Tina Hwang, will be presenting on Due Diligence Tips in Residential Property Acquisitions.
Property Law
2024-01-31
Overseas Investment Office (OIO) Consent - What is it and do you need it?
When purchasing sensitive land (which now includes residential property) in New Zealand, you may need OIO consent. Whether or not you require consent depends on your residency status, and if purchasing under a company or trust, will be dependent on whether the entity has an overseas persons or is associated to an overseas person.
OIOOverseas Investment Office
2024-01-30
What is a statutory demand?
What is a statutory demand? A statutory demand is a demand for undisputed debt to be payable within a certain amount of time. There are 5 requirements that are needed...
liquidationreceivership bankruptcystatutory demand
2024-01-26
Do I need a prenup? Contracting Out Agreements
Do I need a prenup? What is a contracting out agreement? What is relationship property? These are some questions you may ask yourself when entering a serious relationship with your partner. It is important to understand the answers to these questions before committing not only yourself but your assets to your partner.
Contracting OutPrenup
2024-01-24
Amendments to the Unit Titles Act
The Unit Titles (Strengthening Body Corporate Governance and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2022: What the changes mean and what to be aware of:
Unit Titles ActProperty Law
2024-01-17
New Zealand Residence Visa - Investor Plus Category (Seminar)
Queen City Law along with Bentleys, Blackbull Wealth and NZVC held an online seminar where they discussed the New Zealand Residence Visa (Investor Plus Category) from the Queen City Law office.
Immigration Law
2024-01-15
Starting a business in New Zealand
This article explores an important topic that will affect aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners: the legal considerations for starting a business in New Zealand. At Queen City Law, we witness firsthand the challenges and opportunities that arise when embarking on a new business venture. By understanding the legal landscape, you can set a solid foundation for your business and mitigate potential risks.
Employment Law2023
2023-12-21
Queen City Law to co-chair and present at the Immigration Law Summit 2024
QCL is at the forefront of business migration and in fact all aspects of migration and has nurtured an incredible client base largely due to this work type. We get to know our clients very well during this process and this generally forges a long term trusted advisor relationship with the firm as we then represent our clients with all of their other legal requirements (Estate planning, commercial, property, employment for example only) in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
2023-12-19
Contract Law 104
If a contract has been breached – not performed in accordance with its terms – then the aggrieved party has to decide what to do about it. This involves two distinct considerations – determining what has been lost, and determining what process to follow to recover that loss.
Litigation2023-12-01
What is a trust?
A trust is a separate legal entity where an arrangement is made between one party usually called ’the settlor’ grants another party ‘the trustee/s’ the authority to hold and manage assets or property for the benefit of a third party or a group of beneficiaries.
Property LawPrivate Wealth
2023-11-01
Immigration Employment Update 2023
Accredited employers will no longer be able to use 90-day trials. The Government is requiring employers to commit to not using trial periods when hiring people on an AEWV.
Immigration LawEmployment Law2023-09-12
Contract Law 103
Contracts are the foundation of business transactions, legal agreements, and everyday interactions. They serve as the backbone of commercial relationships, providing a framework within which parties can operate, make commitments, and ensure the smooth flow of activities. However, which disputes arise, the interpretation of contracts is not always straightforward.
Litigation
2023-08-02
Contract Law 102
In the realm of contract law, parties must clearly define the terms of their agreement to avoid misunderstandings and disputes. These terms fall into different categories, including express terms, implied terms (implied by statute, the courts, or in fact), and exclusion clauses. This article explores each of these categories and discusses notable cases that shed light on their significance and application in contract law.
Litigation
2023-07-26
How do I prove that I am a bona fide applicant?
If you are applying for a visitor or student visa, it is likely that Immigration New Zealand will raise concerns in regards to whether you are a bona fide applicant.
Immigration Law
2023-07-12
How To Get Residency In New Zealand
After being in and out of lockdowns for over two years, New Zealand has finally opened its borders again. This means that people can now begin migrating to New Zealand like they were, before the pandemic hit. Immigration New Zealand has multiple pathways that can be undertaken to obtain a New Zealand Residency Visa. Each pathway will be explained below:
Immigration Law
2023-07-03
Myths about Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorneys
Wills and Enduring Power of Attorneys are often misunderstood, with people not knowing the true meaning behind each. This blog post will put the rumours to bed, and explain what they are for, and who should get them.
Private Wealth
2023-05-03
What happens when the Construction Contracts Act collides with the Liquidation regime?
When a company can’t pay its debts, the shareholders and directors can appoint a Liquidator, to wind up the company. If they do not do so, a creditor can apply to the Court to place the company into Liquidation (and has the opportunity to nominate the Liquidator).
Civil Litigation
2023-05-01
How can I save my dog?
Sometimes dogs bite people, situations arise when even the best owners and best dogs get into troubles. A strange set of circumstances, a confulence of misadventure or just a momentary lapse in judgement, can lead a dog owner to be dealing with the fallout from a attack or criminal prosecution. What can you do to protect yourself and your dog? This week Tina Hwang examines what a dog owner can expect when their dog is accused of attacking someone.
Litigation
2023-05-01
Partnership Visas
The partnership visa is a great way to bring your loved one to your side. It can enable your partner to obtain either residency or an open work visa. To do so, you need to prove to Immigration New Zealand that you are ‘living together in a genuine and stable relationship’.
Immigration Law
2023-05-01
Contract Law 101
Everyone comes into contact with the law. The law that we all come into contact with can be split into 3 main areas – (i) criminal law, where the State imposes obligations on us all, (ii) torts, which can be described as norms of society which we must all abide by and that the courts will enforce, and (iii) contract, which are obligations we enter into voluntarily and which can be very extensive in their nature.
Litigation
2022
2022-09-16
Trees & Neighbours
“The tree which moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a green thing that stands in the way. Some see nature all ridicule and deformity…and some scarce see nature at all. But to the eyes of the man of imagination, nature is imagination itself.” – William Blake
2022-08-23
What do you need to know about the New Compensation Clause in the 11th Edition of REINZ/ADSL Agreement?
The Eleventh Edition of the REINZ/ADSL Agreement for sale and purchase of real estate (“Agreement”) has come into force as we approach the two-year anniversary of life under COVID-19 in New Zealand. It has developed to reflect the changing legislations and evolving industry practices. While many of the changes are minor, one of the changes are particularly noteworthy – the new Compensation Claim contained in Clause 10 of the Agreement.
Property Law
2022-08-12
How to Buy a House in New Zealand – essential tips for first home buyers
Are you a first home buyer? Have you just moved to New Zealand? Do you know what a ‘conditional’ agreement is or an ‘unconditional’ agreement is? Do you know what the difference is between buying a house at auction or by negotiation?
Property Law
2022-08-01
Employment Law and Email Privacy
In New Zealand electronic communications are not considered property and therefore cannot be stolen. But can an employer access your emails and use them as reasons to dismiss an employee?
Employment Law
2022-07-12
What is a Character Waiver? Immigration to NZ
In brief everyone entering NZ must be of be of good character and not pose a potential security risk to NZ. This is primarily assessed through the character requirements for entry into NZ which are the same whether you are applying for residence or for temporary entry.
Immigration Law
2022-07-06
"You're fired!" Do you have a personal grievance claim?
We have all seen the Hollywood movies, the dramas and also heard of outrageous conduct "warranting" dismissal. However, does serious misconduct actually justify dismissal in New Zealand? The short answer is "no." Hardly any serious misconduct will warrant immediate dismissal as the Employment Relations Act 2000 has taught us that due process and good faith are the two corner stones in employment relationships, often at the dismay of employers.
Employment Law2022-05-05
My Limited Via is due to expire, what can I do
Limited Visas are often granted to people that have a potential risk of remaining in New Zealand unlawfully after their visa expires. It is Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) way of giving you an opportunity to come to New Zealand for an express purpose even when they see potential risks within your application.
Immigration Law
2022-04-23
Defences to Drink Driving
At Queen City Law we urge you to get good legal advice if you are considering fighting a drink driving charge. If you intend to seek a discharge without conviction, be sure to share with your lawyer in a timely way all aspects of the circumstances surrounding your case. Many of the details of these circumstances will determine wether or not your defence is successful in court.
Criminal Law
2022-04-07
Medical Waivers for Immigration to New Zealand
Under current immigration residence criteria all individuals included in an application for New Zealand permanent residence are required to demonstrate that they have an acceptable standard of health for the grant of New Zealand residence, or, failing this, they qualify for a “medical waiver”.
Immigration Law2022-02-01
Neighbour Law
Disputes with neighbours can arise over many things; noise, fences, trees and animals etc. Ideally, you and your neighbour should be able to resolve any problem by discussing it and acting reasonably. However, if this is not possible, the law may be able to help resolve the matter.row-monopoly-houses
Property Lawdisputes2019
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