News
Insights
Employment law changes which may impact Canterbury Farmers
The new government began their term with a 100-day plan and an intention to deliver 49 actions to New Zealand.
New freshwater rules and winter grazing
As many farmers are now aware, the Government’s new essential freshwater requirements cover a range of regulations covering a range of practices such as stock exclusion from water bodies, and winter grazing.
Significant RMA change on the way
The Resource Management Amendment Bill 2019 has now been introduced, together with a comprehensive review of the resource management system.
Impacts of new tenancy law for farmers and their workers
The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (the Act) has regulated New Zealand law for over 30 years.
The basics of relationship property law that could protect your assets
Entering a new relationship can be a memorable moment in a person’s life that offers a number of opportunities that not be achieved by a single individual.
Proposed increase in income tax rate
for trusts
Trusts have long been a popular method for individuals
and families to manage their wealth and assets in
New Zealand.
Business succession and management buy-outs
Canterbury business owners int he autumn of their careers looking to retire are faced with a number of challenges in ensuring the ongoing success of their enterprise.
Commercial contracts
The commercial trading environment in North Canterbury…is experiencing a reasonably high level of uncertainty arising from increased demand on limited supply.
A robust succession plan
Taking a step back from the daily management of the family farm can be a difficult stage of life for some parents, particularly for those considering the transfer of farming assets to the next generation.
Updates to the Emissions Trading Scheme
The New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) was created through the Climate Change Response Act 2002 in recognition of New Zealand’s obligations under the Kyoto Protocol.
The Government’s proposal on agricultural emissions
The government has announced that they will be implementing a levy on emissions arising from agricultural activities, starting in 2025.
A crack down on poultry farming causing a scramble for eggs
The beginning of 2023 brought with it an egg shortage that many have been vocal about.
Legal considerations for stock crossings
Shifting livestock Is an Integral part of a tanner's dally tasks. Often this Includes regularly shifting livestock across public roads untethered or via stock crossings.
Are you meeting your minimum employment obligations?
The summer period can be extremely busy for businesses across North Canterbury.
Who is responsible for your boundary trees?
Planting trees on your Canterbury farm can provide shelter for livestock, fodder in the drier months, prevent soil erosion, and act as an easily visible indicator of the boundary lines.
Changes in the business environment and shareholders agreements
Small to medium sized enterprises feature predominantly in North Canterbury employing a large percentage of the work force and making a significant contribution to the regional gross domestic product.
Is Restraint of Trade a useful tool?
Employers have looked to include restraint of trade covenants in employment agreements on the assumption that the mere existence of the restraint of trade would protect their business.
Liability for escaped stock
In rural New Zealand, it is not unusual to discover livestock wandering outside of the livestock owner’s boundary.
Rules and regulations when using drones
In recent times, local community forums have expressed outrage over drone users flying over private property.
Looking into The Water Services Act
Many in the community will be aware of the present Government’s water regime policy widely known as the Three Waters Scheme.
Where there is a will…
Modern day families can be complex, and your family situation may include children from prior relationships, blended families or family fall out.
Davos and Bust
Given the inevitable tumult surrounding the resignation of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, pundits will be quick to assess the success and failures of the Labour government under her leadership.
Guarantors need to protect their rights
With increased lending to simulate consumer spending…during these uncertain finical times, lenders, borrowers and guarantors need now to be more vigilant in managing these relationships.
Indigenous biodiversity
The New Zealand Government has released a draft National Policy on Indigenous Biodiversity (NPIB).
Indigenous biodiversity
The New Zealand Government has released a draft National Policy on Indigenous Biodiversity (NPIB).
Proposed Election Policies and their impact on Canterbury Farmers
With the October election looming, political parties are rolling out their policies to entice a vote for their party.
Check your blind spot
The Agricultural industry makes up a majority of the workplace incidents reported across New Zealand.
Animal Welfare Act 1999
In November 2020, the Wellington High Court singled out the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) for severe criticism in failing to phase out the farming practice of farrowing crates for mother pigs.
Buy and Sell Deeds and the application of insurance proceeds
Many small to medium sized businesses often find it challenging in dealing with the death, critical illness or total permanent disability of a key director who is also a shareholder in an enterprise.
Employment challenges
In the current tough economic times, many businesses in North Canterbury are faced with the challenge of reducing costs.
Enduring Powers of Attorney
Having up-to-date Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) is a fundamental aspect of planning for life’s uncertainties.
Considerations for rural fires
With the summer months nearing and the aftermath of the Pegasus Bay fire still raw, now is an opportune time to consider the rules regarding fires.