News & Views

2024-11-18

Evaluating New Zealand’s Investor Visa Programs: A Comparative Analysis

New Zealand has long been a destination for investors seeking to contribute to its vibrant economy. Recently, the performance of the Active Investor Plus (AIP) Visa has come under scrutiny, prompting discussions about its effectiveness and potential alternatives. This blog delves into the key statistics, critical analysis, and future prospects of the AIP Visa, while also exploring the Entrepreneur Visa as a viable alternative.

By Harris Gu

2024-11-14

What is involved in a due diligence review of property?

Simply put, your due diligence into a property is finding its “true nature” and any issues or risks you should be aware to avoid unexpected costs or complications in the future. 

By Polina Boyarchenko

2024-11-11

Update from INZ makes it easier for workers to support their partners for a work visa

Migrant workers in New Zealand have usually been able to support their partners for a work visa. This lets them come into New Zealand and earn additional money for the family, and it is usually followed by a student visa for their children to reunite the family here.

By Andrew Nah

2024-11-06

Understanding Cross-Lease Properties in New Zealand

Cross-lease properties are a form of land ownership unique to New Zealand where multiple individuals jointly own a section of land. Each owner holds a separate lease for their individual house or flat, but the land itself is co-owned. This arrangement comes with its own set of benefits and challenges, which are important to understand if you are considering purchasing or living in a cross-lease property.

By Joseph Diao

2024-10-30

Auckland ranked as the best New Zealand city to be an entrepreneur

SumUp, a global fintech company based in London, has recently released the results of a report ranking the best cities globally for entrepreneurs. This ranking is based on a wide range of factors, from taxation to how easy it is to migrate there to even quality of life and internet speeds. The goal of this ranking is to establish the best cities for entrepreneurs to live, not just for business but also for the lifestyle.

By Henny Bunardy

2024-10-23

The Basics of Subdivision

Subdivision is the process of dividing a larger piece of land into smaller lots, and it can be a complex but rewarding venture. To ensure success, it’s crucial to have the right professionals, prepare the correct documents, and follow the proper steps at the right time.

By Tina Hwang

2024-10-09

Tina Hwang Contributions to the Profession and Community

Tina Hwang, Director and head of the Property & Disputes Team, has been re-appointed as Convenor of The Law Association Property Law Committee. This dynamic committee meets monthly to address pressing issues and regulatory changes impacting property lawyers. Over the years, the committee has proactively engaged with banks, organisations, and key stakeholders, advocating on behalf of property lawyers by providing recommendations and submitting legal submissions for regulatory changes on critical matters.

By Aimee Young

2024-10-04

Work Visa Pathways for Nurses in New Zealand

Immigration New Zealand have streamlined the pathway for nurses and other related healthcare professionals to apply for work visas.

By James Bruce

2024-09-27

Partners of New Zealanders can get longer visas after new INZ announcement

From 1 October 2024 onwards, partners of New Zealand citizens and residents may be entitled for work or visitor visas for a maximum of 3 years. This is an extra year from the previous 2-year maximum. However, the couple need to have been living together for at least 12 months to be eligible for this extra year.

By Andrew Nah

2024-09-25

Navigating Work Rights as an International Student: Stay Informed, Stay Compliant

As an international student, receiving work rights can be an exciting opportunity to gain valuable experience and support yourself financially. However, it’s crucial to understand the conditions attached to your student visa to avoid jeopardising your future visa applications.

By Hannah Alcantara

2024-09-18

The Implications of Good Faith Requirements on Employers Supporting Work Visa Holders

New Zealand is an international country with high population mobility. Due to our small size, many Kiwi companies look to international talent to fill crucial or critical roles.

By Sonny Lam

2024-09-16

Tina Hwang: Leading the Way in Property & Disputes

Tina Hwang, Director and head of the Property & Disputes Team, has been making waves with her recent contributions through publications and presentations across the property and construction sectors. Tina recently penned a thought-provoking article on the pressing employment challenges in the construction industry, published in the Builders and Contractors magazine. Her insights delve into the complexities employers face in navigating the current employment landscape.

By Tina Hwang

2024-09-12

Navigating Off-the-Plan Sale and Purchase Agreements in New Zealand: Key Considerations

Purchasing a property off-the-plan can be an exciting venture, offering the promise of a brand-new home tailored to your preferences. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges and risks. In New Zealand, off-the-plan sale and purchase agreements are common, but it is crucial to approach them with caution and due diligence.

By Tom Huang

2024-09-04

Roles Exempt from AEWV Median Wage Threshold in New Zealand

New Zealand's immigration policies are designed to balance the needs of the local labor market with the benefits of hiring skilled migrants. One of the key aspects of this balance is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, which includes a median wage threshold. However, certain roles are exempt from this threshold, allowing employers to hire migrants for these positions without meeting the median wage requirement.

By Henny Bunardy

2024-09-02

The consequences of cost

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced that they will be introducing changes to their charges (which includes both application fees and levies). These changes will go live on 1 October 2024. The vast majority of these changes are an increase in charges, sometimes even more than doubling in price.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-08-27

QCL presents at "Which Pathway is Better?" seminar for residency visa

Queen City Law has always been a regular at Legalwise seminars, both as the Chair and as presenters. Yesterday’s seminar, “Which Pathway is Better?”, is a showcase of our talent as the Chair and the presenters are all from Queen City Law.

By Rita Worner

2024-08-21

Our Stellar Support Team: Welcoming New Team Members!

At Queen City Law, our support staff are the unsung heroes who keep everything running smoothly and we are thrilled to welcome new members to our support staff team.

By Aimee Young

2024-08-16

Americans Buying NZ Property & Residency Pathyways

Marcus & Bradley discuss how Americans can buy property in New Zealand and the various residence pathways required to buy your home.

By Bradley So

2024-08-06

Navigating Post-Accreditation Checks: Why Employers May Urgently Need Expert Legal Assistance

In the constantly changing and complex landscape of New Zealand's immigration system, staying compliant is more crucial than ever for employers. The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program aims to streamline the hiring of migrant workers, but it also comes with stringent post-accreditation checks and potential risks in order to prevent migrant exploitation.

By Bradley So

2024-07-31

Why You Need a Property Lawyer: A balancing act between progressing the sale and protecting one’s interests

Navigating the complexities of real estate transactions can be challenging, whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in property. While real estate agents and brokers play vital roles in these processes, having a property lawyer by your side is indispensable for ensuring a smooth, legally sound transaction.

By Luke Beveridge

2024-07-19

NZ Citizenship - By Birth, by Descent, or by Grant – what’s the difference?

New Zealand offers 3 main pathways to citizenship: by birth, by descent, and by grant. While the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship are largely the same for each, there are a few significant distinctions between the three.

By Rita Worner

2024-07-10

Mortgagee Sale – What You Need to Know as a Mortgagee (Lender)

A mortgagee sale occurs when a mortgagee (lender) sells a property to recover a defaulted loan. This process can only be initiated if the borrower defaults under the loan agreement, which includes failing to repay the loan on time, missing interest payments, or not maintaining/insuring the secured property to the satisfaction of the mortgagee (lender).

By Max Shin

2024-07-04

Clear Message to Low-Skill Workers: A Critical Analysis of Recent Work Visa Changes

Recently, the Minister of Immigration introduced significant alterations to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, particularly affecting low-skill workers. This blog delves into these changes and their implications.

By Harris Gu

2024-06-26

Batman vs. Robin - Condition vs. Warranty

In a fictitious scenario of an entirely imaginary world of English Law breach of “Condition” is personified as Batman within the realm of contract law. Much like Batman, Condition is to guarantee that promises and representations made under a contract are upheld with integrity and performed in good faith.  If we were to take the same strange and wonderous metaphor to “Warranties” taking on a persona of Robin, Warranty is a supportive companion of Condition, offering additional assurances and parties’ reinforced commitment. 

By Polina Boyarchenko

2024-06-19

Navigating Employer Accreditation renewals

If you plan to keep your current migrant workers or hire new ones, you will need to renew your accreditation. Additionally, if you want to change your accreditation volume, such as moving from standard to high-volume accreditation, now is the time to do so.

By Hannah Alcantara

2024-06-12

The best way to make an inquiry with QCL: A Step-by-Step Guide

When you need legal assistance, our team are here to help and reaching out to us can be the first step towards resolving your issue. To ensure we handle your inquiry efficiently and effectively, follow these guidelines:

By Jade O'Hanlon

2024-06-06

Why getting a pre-nup should empower your relationship

Luke joins Amy from the Slice First Home Podcast to discuss saving time and stress when it comes to buying property, relationship matters and who is really in your corner.

By Luke Beveridge

2024-06-06

Not Boston Legal: A conversation with Marcus Beveridge

Managing Director of Queen City Law, Marcus Beveridge, joins Eden Bradfield, Head of Research at Blackbull on their podcast to discuss assorted issues including the Active Investor Plus business immigration category, what changes are afoot (Including resurrecting the Investor 1 and Investor 2 immigration categories and a possible infrastructure investment component), push and pull factors, the New Zealand Government’s first hundred days and the world’s rapidly changing geopolitical situation.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-06-05

What is OIO consent and do I need it?

What is OIO consent and do I need it? Joseph has a new YouTube video out explaining all you need to know.

By Joseph Diao

2024-05-31

How to prevent/protect yourself from a court claim

How can you prevent or protect yourself from a court claim? Tina has a new YouTube video out explaining all you need to know.

By Tina Hwang

2024-05-30

Property Development Finance in NZ

Property development finance in New Zealand refers to the financial support provided to individuals or companies involved in property development projects. This type of financing is specifically tailored to the needs of property developers and is designed to help them cover the costs associated with acquiring land, construction, and other development expenses.

By Tom Huang

2024-05-29

Pay Peril: The Clash Between INZ Requirements and Teacher Pay in New Zealand for Secondary Teachers

In the ever-evolving realm of education, the heartbeat of our future lies in the hands of skilled and passionate teachers. In New Zealand, Secondary School Teachers stand as the bedrock of our education system, sculpting the minds that will shape tomorrow’s leaders. However, despite the critical role they play, there exists a disparity that threatens to undermine the pathway to residence for these educators.

By Hannah Alcantara

2024-05-24

Major changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa - Q&A

It has been over a month since the major changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa have been introduced. Alex addresses some of the frequently asked questions in her newest video below.

By Hannah Alcantara

2024-05-22

5 reasons why you shouldn’t apply for the Migrant Exploitation Protection Visa

What is a Migrant Exploitation Protection Visa? This is a special visa available to migrant workers who have been exploited while working on an employer supported work visa. If you have reported exploitation while on an employer supported work visa, you can apply for this visa to leave your job while the exploitation is being investigated.

By Sonny Lam

2024-05-09

Update on Employment Law Changes in 2024

It is crucial for both employers and employees to stay on top of employment law changes. Several updates and amendments have been made to employment legislation in New Zealand recently.

By Joseph Diao

2024-05-03

How to use your Kiwisaver to buy a house

Are you eligible? How much can you withdraw? What is the typical withdrawal process?

By Joseph Diao

2024-05-01

Care Workforce: A Student to Residency Pathway

There is currently a lack of care workers in New Zealand, so the country is offering a pathway to residency for migrants entering the care workforce.

By Henny Bunardy

2024-04-29

Key Changes to the NZS3910:2023 Contract

After 10 years of the construction industry using NZ3910:2013 terms, the NZ3910:2023 was released in November 2023.

By Tina Hwang

2024-04-24

New changes to how qualifications are used for Accredited Employer Work Visas

The changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) introduced many new rules, which can be confusing for employers to keep up with. One of the more especially confusing rules is about how qualifications are used, as its very easy to make a certain mistake.

By Andrew Nah

2024-04-19

Minutes with Marcus: The Team Meeting Experience

In the sixth episode of Minutes with Marcus, Marcus chairs QCL's weekly team meeting and gives an insight as to how they run.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-04-17

QCL’s Visionary Workspace: Fostering Legal Excellence and Teamwork

The past few years have been a rollercoaster for all of us, with the shift from office to home and then back again. It was an interesting ride, but during that time QCL was presented with an opportunity to move offices, which gave us the chance to rethink what a great workspace should be. We aimed for a place that complimented our culture - a place where you’d look forward to spending your day.

By Aimee Young

2024-04-15

Further promotions at Queen City Law

Along with the appointment of our new Directors, Queen City Law is also pleased to announce the promotion of Max Shin to Senior Associate, Aimee Young to General Manager, Harris Gu & Luke Beveridge to Senior Lawyer, Polina Boyarchenko to Senior Legal Executive and Alex Baldwin to Immigration Specialist.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-04-12

How can I bring my parents to New Zealand?

If you want to sponsor your parents to live in New Zealand permanently, you have two options for supporting them to obtain residency. There is the Parent Retirement visa and the Parent Category visa.

By Andrew Nah

2024-04-11

NZ millionaire immigration framework overdue for full engine rebore

The Coalition Government needs to get its thinking cap on and get the job done. Rather than being influenced by bureaucratic boffins with no real world experience, its ministers, spin doctors, and policy teams need to robustly engage with those at the coal face so that we end up with attractive rules that result in outcomes we want.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-04-11

3 new directors at Queen City Law

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Bradley So, Tom Huang and Tina Hwang as Directors of Queen City Law. These promotions reflect their leadership, hard work and excellence coupled with their dedication to client service.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-04-10

Significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and the potential effects on migrant workers

If you currently hold an AEWV these changes will not impact your visa conditions or duration. However, it may affect how long you may be able to stay in New Zealand at one time. This is known as “maximum stay”, once a migrant worker reaches their maximum stay period, they must leave New Zealand.

By Bradley So

2024-04-10

Guide to Post-Accreditation Checks for AEWV Employers

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) may complete checks to confirm you are meeting your obligations as an Accredited Employer. INZ will conduct checks on a proportion of accredited employers each year. A check can occur at any time while you are accredited; these checks can be both desk-based or through site visits.

By Bradley So

2024-04-10

Major changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), and what does it mean for your company?

These changes do not impact current migrant workers' visa conditions or duration if they already hold an AEWV. However, it will affect how long they may be able to stay in New Zealand at one time. This is called the “maximum stay” and migrant workers must leave New Zealand once they have reached this limit. The changes will also affect new Job Check and AEWV applications submitted from April 7, 2024. 

By Bradley So

2024-04-08

Rahasia Hemat Studi dan Kerja di Selandia Baru: Dapatkan Resident Visa dengan jalur Care Workforce

Henny is interviewed by YouTuber, Andy Saputra. They discuss the pathway from Student Visa to Residence Visa in New Zealand.

By Henny Bunardy

2024-04-05

Compensation Claims (Under an Agreement for Sale and Purchase of Real Estate)

Compensation Claims (Under an Agreement for Sale and Purchase of Real Estate)

By Tina Hwang

2024-04-03

Secondary school teachers can apply for the Straight to Residence (STR) Visa in May 2024

As of May 2024, eligible teachers will be able to apply for the Straight to Residence Visa, and those eligible will be able to apply from offshore if they are employed with an accredited employer.

By Bradley So

2024-04-03

Liquidation of BuildHub and the workers stranded in its aftermath

The liquidation of BuildHub, an Auckland based construction-focused labour hire company, was a surprise to all and unfortunately left many of their migrant workers stranded.

By Bradley So

2024-04-03

The Immigration Law Summit 2024

This years Immigration Law Summit had quite the turnout from current and past Queen City Law staff members. Marcus was co-chairing the event, Brad and Harris presented on the Active Investor Plus category and Sonny also presented (with 48 hours notice!) on how employment disputes can cause liabilities to the immigration profession.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-03-28

Belajar & Bekerja Lewat Jalur Care Workforce | Study and work to RV through care workforce pathway

In Henny's new video, she discusses the pathway to residence, starting with a Student Visa.

By Henny Bunardy

2024-03-27

Making the AML process easy for our clients

What happened to the good old days when you could buy a house without all of the intrusive AML stress? 1 July 2018 happened. The AML/CFT Act happened. And everything has been different ever since.

By Jade O'Hanlon

2024-03-22

Minutes with Marcus: An Interview with Tom Huang

In the fifth episode of 'Minutes with Marcus', Marcus interviews Senior Associate Tom Huang.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-03-18

Recent Changes to the Bright Line Test in New Zealand

The National party led New Zealand government has recently announced significant changes to the bright-line test (capital gains tax regime) for residential property sales. This is aimed at cooling the housing market and undoing the changes the previous Labour government enacted during their terms of government.

By Tina Hwang

2024-03-14

How can I use my Kiwisaver?

The different ways you can access your Kiwisaver funds. Be it your first home purchase, retirement, moving countries or a serious illness.

By Joseph Diao

2024-03-13

Glossary for Commercial Leases

A complete Glossary for all things Commercial Leases

By Luke Beveridge

2024-03-13

Navigating the Maze of Commercial Leases: A Guide for Landlords and Tenants

Entering into a commercial lease can be a complex journey filled with legal intricacies and financial implications. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or a new business owner stepping into the world of commercial leases for the first time, understanding the nuances of these agreements is crucial.

By Luke Beveridge

2024-03-08

What happens when a vendor/purchaser defaults or cancels?

What happens when you default on an agreement for sale and purchase?

By Tina Hwang

2024-03-06

Applying for a Permanent Resident Visa

If you’ve been living in New Zealand as a Resident, then it may be time for you to consider applying for your Permanent Resident Visa (PRV). The main benefit to this is indefinite re-entry to New Zealand. This means you can travel freely in and out of New Zealand without having to worry about your ‘travel conditions’ expiring. 

By Rita Worner

2024-03-05

Victoria Street West Construction: An End In Sight?

After what feels like years of not being able to enter our own building without jumping through hoops, things are starting to look up...

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-03-01

Pwede ka na bang magapply ng Permanent Resident Visa?

Kung ikaw ay nakatira sa New Zealand na may hawak ng Resident Visa, baka oras na para magapply ka ng iyong Permanent Resident Visa o PRV. Ang pinakaunang pakinabang nito ay wala ng limitasyon o entry travel condition ang visa mo sa New Zealand. Ibig sabihin nito, maaari kang magbiyahe nang malaya papasok at labas ng New Zealand na hindi ka nagaalala tungkol sa pag-expire ng iyong ‘travel conditions’.

By Hannah Alcantara

2024-02-28

Unlocking the Reserve Bank’s Proposed Debt to Income Restrictions – What Home Buyers and Property Investors Need to Know

The Reserve Bank has recently announced its proposal to introduce the debt to income (DTI) restrictions on residential mortgage lending.  But what exactly does this mean, and how might it affect those looking to step into the property market?

By Max Shin

2024-02-23

Student Visas and Post-Study Work Visa Requirements

A quick guide on the basics of the fee-paying student visa for international students who want to study full-time in New Zealand.

By Rita Worner

2024-02-22

Conditions to a Contract

A sale and purchase agreement for residential property may include various conditions, depending on the purchaser’s circumstances and negotiations with their vendor, and may vary depending on the property.

By Polina Boyarchenko

2024-02-21

Streamlining Overseas Investment Decisions: Balancing National Security and Economic Growth

In a move aimed at streamlining the process of overseas investment decisions, there are proposals to limit ministerial involvement to matters strictly related to national security only. Currently, ministers have the authority to make decisions regarding investments deemed to be in the national interest, but this responsibility is often delegated to the Overseas Investment Office (OIO). However, this system has been criticized for adding complexity and time to the decision-making process, leading to calls for reform.

By Harris Gu

2024-02-19

We're Hiring: Receptionist

This busy role will include assisting multiple lawyers with administration tasks as well as standard receptionist duties. The perfect person will be someone who works well under pressure, has strong attention to detail, is a fast learner, self-motivating and takes initiative

By Aimee Young

2024-02-16

Minutes with Marcus: QCL Updates, Victoria St West Construction and a New Government

Marcus is back with his fourth episode of 'Minutes with Marcus'. In this episode he discusses exciting updates within QCL and its staff, the construction taking place on Victoria Street West and of course, our brand new government.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-02-14

How to come to New Zealand with the Accredited Employer Work Visa

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is a temporary work visa designed to ensure New Zealanders are first in line for jobs and where genuine skill or labour shortages exist, accredited employers can hire skilled migrants. This was introduced on July 4 2022.

By Hannah Alcantara

2024-02-12

Assisting Filipino Work Visa holders

Following the unfortunate liquidation of the ELE Group in December 2023, a silver lining has emerged. Queen City Law, New Zealand Labour Hire and Immigration New Zealand have come together to support the affected migrant workers, demonstrating the power of unity and compassion in times of crisis.

By Hannah Alcantara

2024-02-09

We're Hiring: Senior Litigation Consultant or Existing Litigation Team

Queen City Law is looking to hire a full time highly skilled and motivated Senior Litigation Consultant or an existing Litigation Team. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leading and managing complex litigation cases, providing expert legal advice, and representing our clients in the courts.

By Marcus Beveridge

2024-02-08

Welcome to the team, Hannah!

Queen City Law is excited to have Hannah join the team!

By Aimee Young

2024-02-07

Selling Leaky Units (Q&A with Ray White's Grant Elliott)

Leaky buildings are buildings that require remedial work to weathertightness issues, whether or not it falls within a 10-year weathertightness guarantee.  It may involve systemic failures in the building or may be isolated leaks from poor maintenance.  They cost owners (and potentially buyers of leaky buildings) significant costs to remedy.

By Tina Hwang

2024-02-05

Queen City Law to present at the Property Law Conference 2024

The Law Association Property Law Conference will be held on 29 February 2024, at Four Points by Sheraton, Auckland - And Queen City Law's Senior Associate, Tina Hwang, will be presenting on Due Diligence Tips in Residential Property Acquisitions. 

By Tina Hwang

2024-01-31

Overseas Investment Office (OIO) Consent - What is it and do you need it?

When purchasing sensitive land (which now includes residential property) in New Zealand, you may need OIO consent. Whether or not you require consent depends on your residency status, and if purchasing under a company or trust, will be dependent on whether the entity has an overseas persons or is associated to an overseas person.

By Joseph Diao

2024-01-30

What is a statutory demand?

What is a statutory demand? A statutory demand is a demand for undisputed debt to be payable within a certain amount of time. There are 5 requirements that are needed...

By Tina Hwang

2024-01-26

Do I need a prenup? Contracting Out Agreements

Do I need a prenup? What is a contracting out agreement? What is relationship property? These are some questions you may ask yourself when entering a serious relationship with your partner.  It is important to understand the answers to these questions before committing not only yourself but your assets to your partner.

By Tina Hwang

2024-01-24

Amendments to the Unit Titles Act

The Unit Titles (Strengthening Body Corporate Governance and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2022: What the changes mean and what to be aware of:

By Tina Hwang

2024-01-17

New Zealand Residence Visa - Investor Plus Category (Seminar)

Queen City Law along with Bentleys, Blackbull Wealth and NZVC held an online seminar where they discussed the New Zealand Residence Visa (Investor Plus Category) from the Queen City Law office.

By Bradley So

2024-01-15

Starting a business in New Zealand

This article explores an important topic that will affect aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners: the legal considerations for starting a business in New Zealand. At Queen City Law, we witness firsthand the challenges and opportunities that arise when embarking on a new business venture. By understanding the legal landscape, you can set a solid foundation for your business and mitigate potential risks.

By Luke Beveridge

2023-12-21

Queen City Law to co-chair and present at the Immigration Law Summit 2024

QCL is at the forefront of business migration and in fact all aspects of migration and has nurtured an incredible client base largely due to this work type. We get to know our clients very well during this process and this generally forges a long term trusted advisor relationship with the firm as we then represent our clients with all of their other legal requirements (Estate planning, commercial, property, employment for example only) in Aotearoa/New Zealand.

By Marcus Beveridge

2023-12-19

Contract Law 104

If a contract has been breached – not performed in accordance with its terms – then the aggrieved party has to decide what to do about it.  This involves two distinct considerations – determining what has been lost, and determining what process to follow to recover that loss.

2023-12-13

Our multi-lingual team

The lawyers at Queen City Law are speakers of Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese, Shanghainese, English, Spanish, Indonesian / Malay, Tagalog and Russian. We are also experts in helping Asian migrants relocate to and settle in New Zealand.

By Marcus Beveridge

2023-12-13

Visitor Visa - Bona Fides

New Zealand is a beautiful country that attracts millions of visitors every year. If you are planning to visit you may need to apply for a visitor visa before you arrive.

By Bradley So

2023-12-01

What is a trust?

A trust is a separate legal entity where an arrangement is made between one party usually called ’the settlor’ grants another party ‘the trustee/s’ the authority to hold and manage assets or property for the benefit of a third party or a group of beneficiaries.

By Luke Beveridge

2023-11-01

Immigration Employment Update 2023

Accredited employers will no longer be able to use 90-day trials. The Government is requiring employers to commit to not using trial periods when hiring people on an AEWV.

By Sonny Lam

2023-09-12

Contract Law 103

Contracts are the foundation of business transactions, legal agreements, and everyday interactions. They serve as the backbone of commercial relationships, providing a framework within which parties can operate, make commitments, and ensure the smooth flow of activities. However, which disputes arise, the interpretation of contracts is not always straightforward.

2023-08-11

Construction Contracts (Retention Money) Amendment Act 2023

On 10 August 2023, Tina Hwang was asked to present to some project managers about the latest changes to the retentions scheme in the Construction Contracts Act 2002.  Here is a summary of her presentation.

By Tina Hwang

2023-08-02

Contract Law 102

In the realm of contract law, parties must clearly define the terms of their agreement to avoid misunderstandings and disputes. These terms fall into different categories, including express terms, implied terms (implied by statute, the courts, or in fact), and exclusion clauses. This article explores each of these categories and discusses notable cases that shed light on their significance and application in contract law.

2023-07-26

How do I prove that I am a bona fide applicant?

If you are applying for a visitor or student visa, it is likely that Immigration New Zealand will raise concerns in regards to whether you are a bona fide applicant.

By Bradley So

2023-07-12

How To Get Residency In New Zealand

After being in and out of lockdowns for over two years, New Zealand has finally opened its borders again. This means that people can now begin migrating to New Zealand like they were, before the pandemic hit. Immigration New Zealand has multiple pathways that can be undertaken to obtain a New Zealand Residency Visa. Each pathway will be explained below:

By Bradley So

2023-07-03

Myths about Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorneys

Wills and Enduring Power of Attorneys are often misunderstood, with people not knowing the true meaning behind each. This blog post will put the rumours to bed, and explain what they are for, and who should get them.

By Tina Hwang

2023-05-03

What happens when the Construction Contracts Act collides with the Liquidation regime?

When a company can’t pay its debts, the shareholders and directors can appoint a Liquidator, to wind up the company. If they do not do so, a creditor can apply to the Court to place the company into Liquidation (and has the opportunity to nominate the Liquidator).

2023-05-01

How can I save my dog?

Sometimes dogs bite people,  situations arise when even the best owners and best dogs get into troubles.  A strange set of circumstances, a confulence of misadventure or just a momentary lapse in judgement, can lead a dog owner to be dealing with the fallout from a attack or criminal prosecution. What can you do to protect yourself and your dog? This week Tina Hwang examines what a dog owner can expect when their dog is accused of attacking someone.

By Tina Hwang

2023-05-01

Partnership Visas

The partnership visa is a great way to bring your loved one to your side. It can enable your partner to obtain either residency or an open work visa. To do so, you need to prove to Immigration New Zealand that you are ‘living together in a genuine and stable relationship’.

By Bradley So

2023-05-01

Contract Law 101

Everyone comes into contact with the law. The law that we all come into contact with can be split into 3 main areas – (i) criminal law, where the State imposes obligations on us all, (ii) torts, which can be described as norms of society which we must all abide by and that the courts will enforce, and (iii) contract, which are obligations we enter into voluntarily and which can be very extensive in their nature.

2023-02-02

What has the recent flooding taught us?

If there’s anything the past week in Auckland has shown us, it’s to expect the unexpected. Or perhaps now, expect the worst and hope for the… summer we have been robbed of?

By Tina Hwang

2022-09-16

Trees & Neighbours

“The tree which moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a green thing that stands in the way. Some see nature all ridicule and deformity…and some scarce see nature at all. But to the eyes of the man of imagination, nature is imagination itself.” – William Blake

By Tina Hwang

2022-08-23

What do you need to know about the New Compensation Clause in the 11th Edition of REINZ/ADSL Agreement?

The Eleventh Edition of the REINZ/ADSL Agreement for sale and purchase of real estate (“Agreement”) has come into force as we approach the two-year anniversary of life under COVID-19 in New Zealand. It has developed to reflect the changing legislations and evolving industry practices. While many of the changes are minor, one of the changes are particularly noteworthy – the new Compensation Claim contained in Clause 10 of the Agreement.

By Tina Hwang

2022-08-12

How to Buy a House in New Zealand – essential tips for first home buyers

Are you a first home buyer? Have you just moved to New Zealand? Do you know what a ‘conditional’ agreement is or an ‘unconditional’ agreement is? Do you know what the difference is between buying a house at auction or by negotiation?

By Tina Hwang

2022-08-01

Employment Law and Email Privacy

In New Zealand electronic communications are not considered property and therefore cannot be stolen. But can an employer access your emails and use them as reasons to dismiss an employee?

By Tina Hwang

2022-07-12

What is a Character Waiver? Immigration to NZ

In brief everyone entering NZ must be of be of good character and not pose a potential security risk to NZ. This is primarily assessed through the character requirements for entry into NZ which are the same whether you are applying for residence or for temporary entry.

By Bradley So

2022-07-06

"You're fired!" Do you have a personal grievance claim?

We have all seen the Hollywood movies, the dramas and also heard of outrageous conduct "warranting" dismissal. However, does serious misconduct actually justify dismissal in New Zealand? The short answer is "no." Hardly any serious misconduct will warrant immediate dismissal as the Employment Relations Act 2000 has taught us that due process and good faith are the two corner stones in employment relationships, often at the dismay of employers.

By Tina Hwang

2022-05-05

My Limited Via is due to expire, what can I do

Limited Visas are often granted to people that have a potential risk of remaining in New Zealand unlawfully after their visa expires. It is Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) way of giving you an opportunity to come to New Zealand for an express purpose even when they see potential risks within your application.

By Bradley So

2022-04-23

Defences to Drink Driving

At Queen City Law we urge you to get good legal advice if you are considering fighting a drink driving charge. If you intend to seek a discharge without conviction, be sure to share with your lawyer in a timely way all aspects of the circumstances surrounding your case. Many of the details of these circumstances will determine wether or not your defence is successful in court.

By Luke Beveridge

2022-04-07

Medical Waivers for Immigration to New Zealand

Under current immigration residence criteria all individuals included in an application for New Zealand permanent residence are required to demonstrate that they have an acceptable standard of health for the grant of New Zealand residence, or, failing this, they qualify for a “medical waiver”.

By Bradley So

2022-03-07

Good Fences make Good Neighbours – Boundary Disputes

Is your neighbour accessing your property to complete boundary work? Has your neighbour started construction work which will compromise your property, or it’s value, access or enjoyment? fence_goodp

By Tina Hwang

2022-02-01

Neighbour Law

Disputes with neighbours can arise over many things; noise, fences, trees and animals etc. Ideally, you and your neighbour should be able to resolve any problem by discussing it and acting reasonably. However, if this is not possible, the law may be able to help resolve the matter.row-monopoly-houses

By Tina Hwang

2019-06-01

Government kills the goose that lays Immigration’s golden eggs

In the last decade New Zealand has attracted in excess of $10 billion under its Investor categories. Yes, you read that right, ten thousand million dollars - a fair chunk of change.

By Marcus Beveridge