On Shaky Ground: Understanding New Zealand’s Proposed Earthquake-Prone Building Reforms
New Zealand is proposing changes to its earthquake-prone building (EPB) regulations through the Building (Earthquake-prone Building System Reform) Amendment Bill. Current System The current system, introduced in 2017 under the Building Act 2004, uses the New Building Standard (%NBS) to assess risk and requires buildings under 34% NBS to be strengthened or demolished. District Councils are … Read more >
The hidden cost of love: rest home care costs and subsidies in contracting out and separation agreements
Contracting out agreements Rest home subsidies Separation agreements Should you need a contracting out agreement or separation agreement that considers possible future rest home costs or subsidies, contact the Dispute Resolution / Family Hub at Lewis Lawyers by email to Tarsha.Makgill@lewislawyers.co.nz or reception@lewislawyers.co.nz. This article is current at the date of publication. It is intended … Read more >
Inspiring, humbling and deeply appreciated – The care and support of Hospice Waikato
Our recent visit to Hospice Waikato offered a moving glimpse into the incredible work happening behind the scenes of this essential community service. Originally operating as a hotel, the facility has since transformed into a place of comfort, care, and compassion. The Hillcrest facility houses an 11-bed in-patient unit, staffed by five of Waikato’s leading … Read more >
Update to Estate Administration Process
The financial threshold for dealing with estate assets without applying to the court is increasing from $15,000 to $40,000. This change aims to reduce unnecessary delays, costs, and stress during what is already a difficult time for grieving families. Currently, if you pass away with more than $15,000 worth of assets, your representatives must make … Read more >
