Zoe Summerville – Senior Associate
Q: What inspired your move to Wānaka, and how has it shaped your approach to legal work?
A: I was ready for a lifestyle change, and Wānaka offered the perfect mix – beautiful surroundings, a strong community, and more breathing room. It’s reminded me how valuable genuine connections are, both in life and in how I work with clients.
Q: What do you enjoy most about guiding clients through commercial property transactions?
A: I enjoy being part of the bigger picture — understanding what drives the deal and making the process as smooth as possible. I like being the steady hand in the background, making sure all the details line up so clients can focus on their bigger goals.
Q: How has living in a regional setting shaped your approach to balancing work, family, and outdoor life?
A: Living and working here has really reinforced the importance of balance and being present – whether it’s for my clients or my family. Time outdoors and with my boys helps me reset, and that balance means I bring more focus and energy to my work.
Q: Everyone has their own way to unwind outside of work. What helps you switch off and come back to your work refreshed and focused?
A: With two young boys there’s not a lot of “switch off” time, but short moments doing things I enjoy, like cooking, baking or listening to music, help me reset. Those little pockets of calm keep me focused, energised and present for my clients.
Q: Living and working in Wanaka, what do you see as the unique benefits, or challenges, of practising law in a regional community compared with a major city
A: The real highlight is the connection you build with clients. You are part of the community so really see the impact of your work. The challenge is sometimes juggling a wide range of matters, but that variety also keeps things interesting.
Q: Looking ahead, what are you most excited to develop in your legal career at Aspiring Law, or what new interest – professional or personal – are you keen to explore in the coming years?
A: I’m excited to continue building strong client relationships and being someone they can turn to for trusted, down-to-earth advice. Personally, I’m keen to make the most of Wanaka life, more adventures with my boys and plenty of time outdoors.
Minka Boddé – Special Counsel and Family Law
Q: What first drew you to family law?
A: I’ve always been interested in people and potential. Experiencing parental separation and then a blended family, I saw first-hand how challenging those life events can be – especially for children. I had promised my lawyer uncle at age eight I’d become a lawyer. Family law just felt like a natural fit.
Q: You’ve studied communication and human development – how does that influence your work?
A: Communication is everything – both with others and with ourselves. I try to focus on helping clients move through separation with less stress, less powerlessness and more understanding of ways to get to the other side of it all. My approach is client-centred and always child-focused. Being non-judgmental in an environment largely based on judgment also helps me relate to clients in all situations.
Q: You’ve practised in Auckland, Rotorua and now the Southern Lakes – has that changed your perspective?
A: I don’t think so. People are people, wherever they live. The issues might differ, but their humanity doesn’t change.
Q: Family law can be intense. How do you stay grounded and resilient?
A: I think I’m an optimist, or naïve as some would say. I try to look for and listen for the best in people, including myself as often as possible. I would love to say I keep up a solid yoga practice and eat healthy, but sometimes it just comes down to coffee, baths, nice wine, incense, bare feet on the ground and an amazing sense of humour!
Q: What role does nature play for you?
A: It keeps me sane. I have always loved the ocean and fell in love with the mountains doing the Routeburn Track in 2021. Mother Nature reminds me things can be imperfect and still beautiful. The mountains just show how small we really are and how important it is to remind ourselves of what really matters.
Q: What changes would you like to see in family law?
A: I’m passionate about mediation and collaborative approaches that put children first. I’d love to see a more inquisitorial system that helps families rebuild and thrive. I think education is a big part and I am always keen to find alternative solutions that improve relationships rather than damage them.
Q: And what keeps you inspired?
A: Making a difference. As a middle child I’m also really keen to try and achieve some sense of justice, despite it being somewhat of a unicorn.