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At Willis Legal, longevity isn’t just measured in years - it’s felt in relationships, remembered in shared milestones, and seen in the steady rhythm of daily practice. Few reflect that spirit more than Lawrence Willis and Janine Blockley , whose decades of service are woven into the fabric of the firm itself. Lawrence Willis Known to many as Lawrie, he is a cornerstone of the Hawke’s Bay legal community - and part of a three-generation legacy at Willis Legal. His family’s long-standing connection to the firm runs deep, reinforcing a personal commitment to its values, evolution, and enduring presence in the region. Lawrie obtained his Bachelor of Laws from Victoria University before joining the family firm then known as Willis Toomey Robinson in 1983. Since becoming a partner in 1989, he has guided the firm through structural and strategic change (the use of personal computers, online property registration and much more), leading Willis Toomey Robinson through mergers with local Hawke’s Bay firms, including Scannell Hardy & Co, Donkin Lloyd (Napier Law), and Taradale Law, and now serving as both partner and owner at Willis Legal. Over the years, he’s seen the pace of legal practice shift dramatically, especially in how we communicate. From fax machines to email, mobile phones, and digital platforms, each advancement has brought greater speed, and with it, greater pressure. Despite all that change, Lawrie says the highlight of his time at Willis Legal has always been the people, both the team and the clients. It’s the relationships, the shared history, and the trust built over time that continue to make the work meaningful. “Legal knowledge gets you to the issue - but it’s experience that guides you through it. Clients want more than technical answers; they want assurance those answers come from someone who’s seen the terrain, understands its patterns, and knows how to lead with confidence and care. We learn from our experiences, good and bad and bring them to play in every decision we make.” Lawrie’s breadth of legal knowledge from his years of practice sees him mentoring younger lawyers on how to navigate practice and the changing legal world, or offering seasoned guidance, and often a shared history, to clients. Janine Blockley Janine joined the firm in 1981 at just sixteen, beginning as an office junior in the accounts department - back when receipts were handwritten in carbon books and the phones lit up like a switchboard. Over the next 44 years, she held roles across departments, from search and registration to reception, and eventually settled into secretarial support. Her story tracks not just the firm’s history - Robinson Toomey & Partners > Willis Toomey Robinson > Willis Legal - but the pace of legal practice itself: from mini cassette tapes to modern cloud-based systems. Through it all, Janine remained constant, supporting teams, remembering clients and family histories, and quietly keeping the engine of the firm humming. “The thing that keeps me here is the staff - they’ve always felt like family. I’m now the longest-standing member and going for the record… if AI doesn’t take my job first!” Together, Lawrie and Janine represent two facets of enduring excellence: one leads with legal depth and strategic foresight, the other sustains culture, continuity, and client connection. In an industry where change is constant, they prove that relevance doesn’t just come from reinvention - it grows from reliability, care, and long-held trust.  At Willis Legal, we’re proud to honour their legacy - and the values it continues to inspire.

Legal issues can be overwhelming - especially when you’re unsure how to afford the help you need. That’s where Legal Aid comes in. It’s a government-funded programme that helps people access legal advice and representation when they can’t afford it on their own. At its heart, Legal Aid is about fairness: ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be heard and supported, no matter their financial circumstances. What is Legal Aid? Legal Aid is a grant from the government to assist people who would not otherwise be able to afford legal services pay for a lawyer. Legal Aid is not available for every legal issue - for example, it generally doesn’t cover wills, conveyancing, or commercial disputes - but it can be a vital support for those dealing with serious or stressful situations. At Willis Legal we provide Legal Aid for certain family matters, such as parenting disputes, protection orders and some disputes involving housing or debt. Who can get Legal Aid? Legal Aid is means-tested, which means your income and assets will be assessed to determine whether you qualify. The thresholds vary depending on your circumstances - for example, whether you have dependents or a partner. Even if you earn above the threshold, you may still be eligible for partial Legal Aid, or be asked to repay some of the costs over time, depending on your situation. As of July 2025, a single person with no dependents may qualify if they earn under $28,984 per year, while someone with a partner and two children may qualify if their household income is under $73,608. How do you apply? For family matters, we can help you complete the application. You’ll need to provide: proof of income (eg payslips or benefit statements); details of your assets (eg savings, property, vehicles); and information about your living situation and dependents. Common misconceptions There are a few misunderstandings about Legal Aid that are worth clearing up: It’s not just for criminal cases. Many people don’t realise Legal Aid is available for a wide range of family and civil law matters. It doesn’t mean “free lawyer” in every case. Depending on your financial situation, you may need to repay some or all of your Legal Aid over time. Legal debt may be secured against any property, taken from any proceeds of your case, or you may be required to make weekly repayments, depending on your situation. You can choose your lawyer. If a lawyer is approved to take on Legal Aid work, and agrees to act for you, you can ask for them specifically. You must update your details. If your income or assets change, you need to let Legal Aid Services know - otherwise, your eligibility could be affected. Why experience matters Applying for Legal Aid and working through a legal issue with the support of that system can be complex. That’s why it helps to work with a legal team who understands the process - and can guide you through it clearly, compassionately, and efficiently. At Willis Legal, we’ve supported many clients through the Legal Aid process - and we’re here to make sure you feel informed, empowered, and well-represented every step of the way. Need help? Let’s talk If you think you might qualify for Legal Aid - or you’re unsure where to start - we’re here to help. Our team can walk you through your options and support you in applying. Because everyone deserves access to justice.

When a relationship ends or circumstances change, untangling shared property can quickly become complex, emotionally, legally, and financially . R elationship property law provides a framework for dividing assets between partners. Whilst it is a legal process, it is also deeply personal. That’s why having an experienced and trusted advisor is essential. What is relationship property? The Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (the Act) governs how property is divided when a marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship ends, including when a partner passes away. In most cases, there is a presumption of a 50/50 split of shared property, but exactly what counts as “shared” can be more involved than people realise. Relationship property can include: the family home; vehicles and household contents; KiwiSaver and superannuation; income earned during the relationship; any assets acquired together; and any relationship debts. There are also important exceptions and nuances, especially if one partner has brought significant assets into the relationship, or if there are children involved. When the 50/50 rule doesn’t apply While equal sharing is the default, there are several situations where the law may allow for a different outcome: relationships of short duration (less than 3 years); significant economic disparity between partners; separate property, such as inheritance or pre-relationship assets (not intermingled); and contracting out agreements (previously known as prenups). Couples can choose to “contract out” of the default rules by signing a formal agreement. However, this must meet strict legal requirements in order to be valid and enforceable. One of these requirements is that both parties must have independent legal advice. When children are involved Children can significantly impact the division of relationship property. The law acknowledges the necessity of protecting a child’s wellbeing, particularly during family transitions. In these situations, the court may: postpone the sale of the family home if it would disrupt a child’s living situation; prioritise stability by ensuring that the primary caregiver can continue to provide a secure environment; acknowledge unpaid contributions, such as caregiving, as equal in value to financial contributions; and apply the Act to relationships of short duration if there’s a child of the relationship. Every family is different and when children are involved, the stakes are higher. That’s why it’s crucial to seek advice that combines legal clarity with compassion and care. Every situation is different While the law provides a general framework, no two families or relationships are exactly alike. That’s why having thoughtful and experienced legal support makes all the difference. Whether you're entering into a new relationship, separating, or simply planning for the future, clear advice from someone who understands the legal landscape and your personal one is essential. Why legacy matters Willis Legal has been advising Hawke’s Bay families for generations. That long history means we don’t just know the law, but also the community. We approach every situation with perspective, stability, and a practical mindset. Our clients trust us not only to get the paperwork right, but also to help them move forward with clarity and confidence. If you’re facing a separation, starting a new relationship, or looking to secure your future our team is here to help you understand your options in a way that works for you. Book a confidential consultation with us today and take the first step toward peace of mind.

When you’re facing a legal issue, it’s natural to feel unsure about where to start. Legal processes can be complex, and it helps to know that you have trained professionals on your side who understand how to navigate them properly. Whether it’s buying a home, handling a dispute, or managing a family matter, working with qualified legal experts means your matter is being handled with care, skill, and integrity. At Willis Legal, we understand those concerns - and we also believe that transparency and education are the best ways to build trust. So, let’s take a closer look at what it actually takes to become a lawyer or legal executive in New Zealand, and the high professional standards all legal professionals are held to - year after year. What’s the difference between a barrister, solicitor, and legal executive? Solicitor Solicitors are usually your first point of contact for legal advice. They handle a wide range of matters like property and business transactions, family law, wills, enduring powers of attorney and business issues. Our Family Team and Dispute Resolution Team lawyers appear in court (both the Family Court and High Court) regularly, and when required, the District Court, Environment Court, Employment Relations Authority, Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court (less often). Sometimes solicitors “brief” (engage or instruct) barristers to appear in court for more complex civil litigation, like a Supreme Court appeal hearing. All Willis Legal lawyers are “barristers and solicitors”. Barrister A barrister is a lawyer who usually specialises in courtroom advocacy and does not operate a trust account. While barristers are common in criminal law and family law, for civil matters, they’re usually engaged by solicitors to represent clients in higher courts or in complex legal matters. Willis Legal works with a number of barristers across New Zealand in relation to different legal matters when required. Legal Executive Legal executives are qualified legal professionals who work closely with solicitors, often in areas like conveyancing (buying and selling of property), wills, enduring powers of attorney, probate, and estate administration. They are trained and can be accredited through Legal Executives New Zealand ( LENZ ). Legal executives accredited through LENZ are called “Registered Legal Executives”. Legal executives play a crucial role in the delivery of legal services, particularly in property and documentation-heavy areas, like estates. Once they have over eight years' experience as a Registered Legal Executive, they can become a “Fellow” of LENZ. Becoming a legal professional: the path and the commitment Becoming a lawyer or legal executive in New Zealand isn’t just about getting a qualification and a job title. It’s about upholding trust, ethics, and accountability. To become a lawyer (barrister or solicitor), you must: complete a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from a recognised university; complete the Professional Legal Studies Course (also known as “profs”); be admitted to the bar by the High Court of New Zealand; and apply for and hold a current Practising Certificate as a barrister and solicitor (administered by the New Zealand Law Society), which must be renewed annually. Every year, lawyers must declare their fitness to practice, by answering a number of questions, including: all fundamental obligations as laid out in section 4 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006, including adhering to the rules of conduct and client care for lawyers ( Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006 (Lawyers: Conduct and Client Care) Rules 2008); uphold the rule of law and protect the interests of their clients; declaring any criminal convictions, financial issues such as bankruptcy or tax defaults, any complaints or disciplinary actions, or any mental or physical health condition which might affect their ability to practise law; and proof that they have completed the required amount of Continuing Professional Development. This process is designed to protect clients and maintain the public’s confidence in the profession. What this means for you When you work with a legal professional - whether a solicitor, barrister, or legal executive - you’re working with someone who has gone through rigorous training and is held to strict professional standards. We know that legal outcomes can sometimes be frustrating, especially when the law doesn’t deliver the result you were hoping for. But rest assured: our team is committed to acting in your best interests, upholding the law, and delivering the best service we can within the framework of the legal system. If you ever have a question about your legal process, we’re here to talk you through it. Willis Legal Professional. Principled. On your side.

New Zealand’s Healthy Homes standards have been rolling out since 1 July 2019 , culminating in a final compliance deadline of 1 July 2025 for all private residential rentals. These standards cover essential areas like heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture, drainage, and draught stopping, ensuring homes are safe, warm, and healthy. Key compliance time frames Tenancies that began or were renewed between 1 July 2021 – 27 August 2022 : Must meet standards within 90 days of tenancy start or renewal. Tenancies that began or were renewed between 28 August 2022 – 2 March 2025 : Now have up to 120 days to comply — extended due to legislative updates . Tenancies started on or after 3 March 2025 : Must comply with the 1 July 2025 deadline. All existing periodic tenancies , regardless of start date: Are also required to meet standards by 1 July 2025  New compliance statements are mandatory From 1 December 2020, it's illegal to ignore the requirement for a signed compliance statement in new or renewed tenancy agreements. This must detail the property’s current level of compliance. Failing to include this in the tenancy agreement can attract penalties of up to $500 per tenancy. Penalties & tenant rights Landlords who do not comply risk: Fines up to $7,200 per breach under the Residential Tenancies Act. Tenants can issue a 14-day notice to remedy issues. If ignored, they may apply to the Tenancy Tribunal. We see that high volumes of disputes are emerging, especially in student accommodation. Why does this matter? For tenants : You're entitled to a rental that’s warm and dry from 1 July 2025 onward — and you’ve got legal mechanisms to enforce this. For landlords : Compliance isn’t optional — it’s law. Even a single standards omission can result in Tribunal orders, rent rebates, and reputational damage. What you should do now Landlords : Book a Healthy Homes Assessment to identify what’s needed. A Healthy Homes Assessment is a property check carried out by a qualified assessor to see whether your rental meets New Zealand’s legal standards for heating, insulation, ventilation, and more. Assessments aren’t mandatory, but they’re a smart way to avoid guesswork and ensure you’re on track. Providers vary by region and service, so it’s worth doing a bit of research to find one that suits your needs. Ensure all relevant tenancy agreements include the compliance statement , and maintain evidence (eg invoices, inspection certificates). Plan and complete works before 1 July 2025 , the final deadline. Tenants : Review your tenancy agreement or ask for the compliance statement if you haven’t seen it. If your property doesn’t meet the standards, talk to your landlord. If unresolved within 14 days, consider a formal notice to remedy and prepare to go to the Tenancy Tribunal. While many landlords may have allowed compliance to drift, the law is clear: from 1 July 2025 , all rental properties must meet Healthy Homes standards , without exceptions. By getting informed and proactive now, everyone — landlords, tenants, property managers — can avoid penalties, legal disputes, and, most importantly, poor living conditions.

Know Your Rights and Obligations at Renewal Time

Electronic signatures have made signing documents easier, faster, and more efficient. They replace the need for pen-and-paper signatures and allow people to complete transactions digitally. Since the Contract and Commercial Law Act 2017 came into effect on 1 September 2017, electronic signatures have become widely used for legal documents and transactions. What Are Electronic Signatures? An electronic signature is any digital way of signing a document. This could be typing your name, clicking “I agree,” or using special software to create a secure digital signature. Electronic signatures are recognised as legal and binding as long as they meet three key requirements: They clearly show the person intended to sign the document; They are reliable and appropriate for the document's purpose: and Both parties agree to use electronic signatures. Using Electronic Signatures in Property Transactions Electronic signatures are increasingly being used in property transactions. Lawyers and conveyancers use them to complete important steps like signing sale and purchase agreements or submitting documents to register the transfer of property titles. In October 2024, the Authority and Identity Requirements for E-dealing Guidelines 2024 were updated, allowing Authority and Instruction (A&I) forms to be more readily signed and witnessed electronically. Electronic signatures on A&I forms must meet strict reliability standards under the Contract and Commercial Law Act 2017. This includes ensuring the signature is linked to the signer, under their sole control, and that any alterations to the signature or document are detectable. Practitioners must also retain digital signing logs as evidence for compliance. Benefits of Electronic Signatures Fast and Convenient : You can sign documents anytime, anywhere - no need for printing or mailing papers. Cost-Effective : They save time and money by reducing the need for physical paperwork. Secure : Advanced software ensures the signatures cannot be easily altered or faked. Environmentally Friendly : They reduce the use of paper, making them a more sustainable option. Challenges and Considerations While electronic signatures are very useful, there are some things to think about: Trust and Reliability : It's important that the signature method is secure and reliable, especially for high-value transactions. Technology Needs : Both parties need access to the right tools to sign electronically. Exclusions : Some documents, like wills and powers of attorney, cannot be signed electronically under New Zealand law. It is also strongly recommended that separation and relationship property agreements be signed in person unless there are exceptional circumstances. Separation Agreements and Contracting Out Agreements  The Property (Relationships) Act 1976 requires that signatures be witnessed by a lawyer in order to be valid. To date, the law has not been tested as to whether this requires the signature to be witnessed in person. Given the importance of these agreements, specific clauses are put in these agreements if people are wanting to sign electronically. Certain procedures are also followed in the signing process. Electronic signing of these agreements is normally only done if it is not practicable for someone to attend in person. Making the Most of Electronic Signatures To use electronic signatures effectively: Choose reliable software or platforms that comply with the Authority and Identity Requirements for E-Dealing Standard 2024. Make sure all parties agree to use them beforehand. Verify the identity of signers when needed, especially for important documents. Retain evidence, such as digital signing logs, to meet legal obligations. Electronic signatures are a legal and practical way to sign documents. They are particularly helpful for property transactions and have made processes smoother for everyone involved. With the clear guidance provided in the Authority and Identity Requirements for E-Dealing Guidelines 2024, electronic signatures are now even more accessible and secure for legal professionals. By understanding their benefits and being aware of their limitations, businesses and individuals can confidently use electronic signatures in their day-to-day dealings. Please contact us if you need to know more about electronic signatures – we’re always here to help!

Your FAQs About Probate, Executors, and the Process answered.

Trusts are a powerful tool for safeguarding the financial well-being of your vulnerable family members. Whether you have loved ones with disabilities, those in need of long-term care, or other special circumstances, establishing a trust can provide the necessary protection and support. Here's how trusts can help protect your vulnerable beneficiaries: What Is a Trust? A Trust is a legal entity where one party, known as the trustee, holds and manages assets on behalf of another party, known as the beneficiary. Trusts can be individually tailored to meet specific needs and provide a range of benefits for your vulnerable family members. Types of Trusts for Vulnerable Beneficiaries There are several types of trusts designed to protect vulnerable beneficiaries, including: Special Needs Trusts: These trusts are specifically created to benefit individuals with disabilities without affecting their eligibility for government benefits such as New Zealand Superannuation and the Disability Allowance. Special needs trusts ensure that the beneficiary's financial needs are met without jeopardising their access to essential services and support. Discretionary Trusts: In a discretionary trust, the trustee has the authority to decide how and when to distribute trust assets to the beneficiary. This type of trust is particularly useful for beneficiaries who may not be able to manage their own finances due to age, illness, or other factors. The trustee can make decisions based on the beneficiary's needs and circumstances. Protective Trusts: Protective trusts are designed to shield assets from creditors or potential legal claims. These trusts can be particularly beneficial for beneficiaries who may be at risk of financial exploitation or who have a history of financial mismanagement. Benefits of Trusts for Vulnerable Beneficiaries Establishing a trust for a vulnerable beneficiary offers several advantages: Financial security: Trusts provide a structured way to manage and distribute assets, ensuring that the beneficiary's financial needs are met over the long term. Access to Government benefits: Special needs trusts, in particular, allow beneficiaries to receive financial support without affecting their eligibility for government benefits. This ensures that they have access to essential services and support. Protection from exploitation: Trusts can protect vulnerable beneficiaries from financial exploitation by placing assets under the control of a trusted trustee. This reduces the risk of beneficiaries being taken advantage of or mismanaging their finances.  Customised support: Trusts can be tailored to meet the specific needs and circumstances of the beneficiary. This allows for a personalised approach to asset management and distribution. Considerations for setting up a Trust When establishing a trust for a vulnerable beneficiary, it's important to consider the following: Choosing the right Trustee(s): The trustee plays a crucial role in managing the trust and making decisions on behalf of the beneficiary. It is important to choose someone who is trustworthy, knowledgeable, and capable of handling the responsibilities. Drafting the Trust Deed: The Trust Deed should clearly outline the terms and conditions of the trust, including the extent of the Trustee's powers and responsibilities, the beneficiary's rights, and the distribution of assets. Working with a legal professional can ensure that the document is properly drafted and legally sound. Regular Reviews: Trusts should be reviewed regularly to ensure that they continue to meet the beneficiary's needs and comply with any changes in laws or regulations. This helps to ensure that the trust remains effective and relevant over time. Trusts are a valuable tool for protecting your vulnerable beneficiaries and ensuring their financial well-being. By providing a structured and secure way to manage and distribute assets, trusts offer peace of mind for both beneficiaries and their families. It is important to speak with a trusted legal professional to ensure that a Trust is the most effective vehicle for protection (ie compared to Enduring Powers of Attorney or other legal arrangements). If you have a vulnerable family member in need of financial protection, consider establishing a trust to safeguard their future. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you set up a trust that meets your family's unique needs.

Trusts are a valuable tool in estate planning, asset protection, and financial management. However, circumstances may change, and you might need to amend or wind up a trust. Before taking any action, it's important to understand the considerations and implications involved. Understanding the Winding Up of a Trust: Winding up a trust means ending it entirely, nullifying its existence, and distributing the assets to the beneficiaries of the trust. Here's what you should know: Type of Trust: The ability to wind up a trust depends on the powers provided within its Trust Deed. Generally, revocable trusts can be changed or wound up by the Settlor (or other party nominated in the trust deed) at any time, as long as they are mentally competent. Fixed trusts (or irrevocable trusts) cannot be easily wound up or amended without the consent of the beneficiaries and sometimes a court order. Reasons for winding up: Common reasons for winding up a trust include changes in personal circumstances, such as marriage, divorce, or significant financial changes. If the trust no longer serves its intended purpose, winding it up may also be necessary. Process: Winding up a trust typically involves drafting a formal revocation deed, which must be signed and notarised (this means a Notary Public, a type of lawyer, needs to sign). It is advisable to consult with a legal professional to ensure it is appropriate to wind up the trust and that all legal requirements are met. Considerations for Amending a Trust Amending a trust means making changes to the terms or provisions of a trust without completely winding the trust up. Here are some key considerations: Identify the changes: Before amending a trust, clearly identify the specific changes you want to make. This could include altering beneficiaries, changing trustees, or modifying distribution terms. Consultation with Trustees: Communicate with the trustees about the proposed amendments. Trustees play a crucial role in managing the trust and must be informed about any significant changes. Trustees must reach a unanimous decision together, before the Trust can be amended. Legal compliance: Ensure that the amendments comply with all relevant legislation and the terms and powers outlined in the original Trust Deed. Consulting with a legal professional is highly recommended to avoid any undesired legal consequences. Formal documentation: Like winding up a trust, amending a trust requires formal documentation. A Trust Amendment Deed must be drafted, signed, and notarised. In some cases, multiple amendments may be consolidated into a single restatement of the trust. Potential Implications Both winding up and amending a trust come with potential implications that need careful consideration: Tax consequences: Changes to a trust can have tax implications, particularly for fixed trusts. It is essential to consult with a tax advisor to understand the potential impact on your tax situation. Legal challenges: Improperly executed amendments or revocations can lead to legal challenges from beneficiaries or other interested parties. Ensuring that all legal requirements are met and that the changes are clearly documented can help mitigate these risks. Asset protection: Amending or winding up a trust may impact the level of asset protection the trust provides. For example, winding up a trust could expose assets to creditors or legal claims. Consider the implications for your overall asset protection strategy before making any changes. Winding up or amending a trust is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and professional guidance. Understanding the type of trust, the reasons for change, and the potential implications is essential. Consulting with legal and tax professionals can help ensure that the process is carried out smoothly and that your trust continues to serve its intended purpose effectively. If you are considering winding up or amending a trust, take a thoughtful and informed approach. By doing so, you can ensure that your trust continues to provide the desired benefits and aligns with your current circumstances and goals. We have the expertise to guide you through this process. Contact us today to discuss your options and ensure your trust is serving your best interests.

How an Independent Professional Trustee Could be of Assistance