Major Overhaul of the Fair Trading Act: What the New Penalties Mean for Retailers
The Government has announced substantial reforms to the Fair Trading Act (“FTA”), with a bill expected to be introduced to Parliament next year. While supermarkets have been specifically referenced as a focus point of the amendments, following multiple supermarkets pleading guilty to FTA offences earlier this year, these changes will apply to all businesses. Major […]
Take-off for the Civil Aviation Act 2023 this Saturday – Don’t miss the runway!
The Civil Aviation Act 2023 (“the Act”) comes into force on 5 April 2025 and is set to replace both the Airport Authorities Act 1966 (“the Airport Authorities Act”) and the Civil Aviation Act 1990. The Act updates New Zealand’s aviation law in many ways, including regulating drone use, introducing stronger drug and alcohol management […]
New tax bills for not-for-profits: Be aware of potential changes and have your say
It is widely known that not-for-profits (“NFPs”) in New Zealand receive benefits such as GST concessions and income tax deductions. That may be about to change, as Inland Revenue (“IRD”) is now considering whether NFPs should pay tax on transactions, membership subscriptions and levies. IRD’s considerations were revealed in a consultation paper released on 24 February 2025, […]
Why do I need a written agreement with my business partners?
The recent case of Venkataramanujam v Ramasubramanian [1] demonstrates how important it is to have a clear understanding of the obligations business partners owe each other and the point at which those obligations will end. Background The Venkataramanuiams (“the Vs”) entered into an unwritten joint venture with the Ramasubramanians (“the Rs”). The parties would invest in property and […]
Clear instructions are vital – Ensure Will instructions are accurately recorded
The recent case of Public Trust v Fairbairn [2023] NZHC 2605 (“Fairbairn”) demonstrates how important it is to provide clear instructions for your Will, and for those instructions to be recorded clearly. Bruce Henry Sullivan (“the Deceased”) passed away on 14 July 2022. The Deceased had no partner or children, but had three siblings who […]
Empowering Change: The Charities Amendment Act 2023 and its Impact on Nonprofits
The Charities Amendment Act 2023 (“the Act”) has been enacted with the purpose of modernising the Charities Act 2005. The Act came into force on 5 July 2023 with some changes being immediate, and other changes being implemented on 5 October 2023 and 5 July 2024. The immediate changes implemented on 5 July 2023 were […]