News and views

All legal eyes are glued to a landmark case that’s set down to be heard in the Supreme Court early next month – and its significance is such that anyone with a trust would do well to take a keen interest in, too.

Trademarking stoushes are rearing their heads lately – everything from the quintessential “David versus Goliath” battles to smaller businesses butting heads over brand protection.

As we bid farewell to another ski season, it won’t be long and our neck of the woods will be back heaving with visitors enjoying the holiday season, and fruit-picking will be in full swing. And, once again, many local employers will likely be relying on temporary migrant workers to bolster their ranks to see their businesses successfully through another busy spell.

It’s great to see the increasing number of our clients taking advantage of the new KiwiSaver HomeStart package – with the Government confirming the scheme is off to the same cracking start nationally that we’re seeing in our parts.

The impact of the new United States Foreign Tax Compliance Act (“FATCA”), which prevents U.S. citizens and tax residents living outside of the U.S. from avoiding paying tax in that country, is in effect.

After years of leaky home horror stories, leaky shower nightmares have recently sprung up in the media. According to reports, as older-style acrylic and stainless steel trays have given way to on-trend, fully-tiled showers, some homeowners are facing huge water damage and significant repair bills due to poor waterproofing.

Tiled showers have the potential to become the new “leaky” issue for unsuspecting vendors and purchasers.

The Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Act 2014 comes into force on 6 June 2015.