News and views | Aspiring Law

What QLDC’s Urban Intensification Variation Means for Property Owners

The Queenstown Lakes District Council has approved major planning changes through its Urban Intensification Variation. These changes will affect building heights, subdivision potential, and the future character of neighbourhoods across Queenstown and Wānaka. This article outlines the key changes and what they mean for property owners, developers, and the wider community.

Residential property
The Cost of Default

A recent court decision highlights the serious financial consequences of failing to settle a property purchase once a sale and purchase agreement becomes unconditional. In this case, a purchaser was ordered to pay approximately $1.1 million in damages after defaulting on settlement.

Residential property Buying residential property
Insurer temporarily halts new policies due to flood risk

AA Insurance has stopped offering new home and landlord policies for parts of Westport because of the town’s significant flood risk, even though existing policies remain in place. This is widely expected to be the first of many similar decisions around the country.

Residential property Buying residential property
What Your Lawyer Must Do When You're Getting a Bank Loan

If you're buying property or refinancing with a bank loan, your lawyer has specific legal duties to complete before the bank will release the funds. Understanding these requirements can help avoid delays and surprises during settlement.

Buying residential property Funding residential property
Building Your Dream Home? Important New Protections Coming Your Way

If you're planning to build or renovate your home in the coming years, there are some significant changes on the horizon that will affect you. Here's what you need to know.

Building residential property
Modernising Employee Leave Entitlements: What the Upcoming Changes Mean for Employers and Workers

The future of employment law in New Zealand is set for a significant shift, aiming to create a fairer and more flexible system of employee entitlements. Learn more about the proposed updates.

Employment & HR
Why a Will Matters, Even in Your 20s

A Will gives you peace of mind and gives your family the clarity and support they’ll need when it matters most.

Trusts and Life planning Creating a Will
Meet the Aspiring Law team - Minka Boddé & Zoe Summerville

Get to know Minka Boddé, Special Counsel & Family Law and Zoe Summerville, Senior Associate.