Newsletter - August 2025
It is almost the end of August already and the year continues to fly by, although for some it might be feeling a little more like dragging by, than for others. We are however heading to that time of the year when the days get a bit longer, the temperatures a bit warmer and there is a renewed sense of positivity as we shake off the last few weeks of winter.
2025 has, so far, been a pretty challenging year for many, although those green shoots continue to show signs of life, as interest rates slowly come down and people begin planning ahead for the warmer months and the end of year. Most people will already be looking ahead to 2026 and what might be in store.
2025, however, has also been a year of change in many respects, particularly in terms of the property market (and interest rates), immigration, rolling out a number of new visa categories and various other legal tweaks and changes.
As we round the bend to spring and then eventually the home stretch to the end of the year, time is ticking away to wrap up all of your 2025 plans. If there are any legal matters you want to sort out before the year ends or if you need advice tailored to your specific circumstances, our team is only a phone call away.
Interest Rates
One very hot topic through the course of 2025 has been the official cash rate and and its gradual fall (some might argue too gradual) following the post-covid hikes. After a sustained period of high interest rates aimed at curbing inflation, this slow but steady shift signals a potential change in the property market environment.
For people considering a purchase, particularly those in the “first home buyer” market, it’s important to consider not only what this means for your buying options, but also how it affects financing, contracts, and the wider market in which your property transaction will take place.
Lower interest rates generally make borrowing more affordable. This improves mortgage serviceability and may allow buyers to access higher levels of lending. We are already seeing renewed interest from first-home buyers and investors who had, up until recently, been sitting on the side-lines.
For property owners considering selling, a lower interest rate environment can provide a stronger market backdrop. More buyers in the market can increase demand and shorten sale timelines. However, sellers should still approach the process cautiously - price growth is not guaranteed, and regional differences remain pronounced.
Investors are expected to re-enter the market as borrowing costs fall. This may increase demand for investment properties, particularly in areas with strong rental yields. At the same time, tenants may see fewer rental properties available as landlords choose to sell less often in a gradually improving environment.
Our recommendations, for those heading back in to the property market, are to keep the following in mind:
Finance clauses: With interest rates moving, lenders may adjust conditions attached to lending. Ensure agreements provide sufficient protection if finance is delayed or altered.
Due diligence: Increased buyer competition can sometimes lead to rushed decisions. It remains critical to complete full checks - title searches, LIM reports, building inspections - before confirming.
Refinancing opportunities: Existing homeowners should review their current mortgage structures. Lower rates can provide opportunities to refinance, but break fees and contract terms need to be carefully considered.
While lower interest rates are positive for market activity, they may also bring increased volatility. If prices rise sharply, further regulatory intervention - such as lending restrictions - could follow.
Our role at Turner Hopkins is to ensure that, whatever the market conditions, your property transactions are secure, compliant, and structured to protect your interests.
Team Updates
This week we were delighted to welcome Olga Pelevina back to the office after her maternity leave. While we’ve certainly missed her presence, we know she’s been busy with far more important family priorities.Olga moved to New Zealand from Russia in 2014 with her family. She went on to complete her law degree at AUT and was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court in 2018.
Specialising in property and estate matters, Olga brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our Private Client team. We’re thrilled to have her back on board. Olga is excited to reconnect with her colleagues and clients.
We also welcome our newest edition to the team, Carly Xu, who joins our specialist immigration team (THiS), supporting our licensed advisers. Carly has inside knowledge of the visa process, having worked with Immigration New Zealand in their Shanghai Branch as a Support Officer.
Carly graduated from the University of Otago with a master’s degree in teaching and learning (ECE) with distinction. Carly is fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, English and Japanese. Carly is looking forward to supporting people as they pursue their dreams of moving to New Zealand, with her professional knowledge, passion and language skills.
Legal Questions?
Everyday Legal FAQs
We know that legal issues often raise practical questions. Whether you’re buying property, planning for the future, or dealing with a family or business matter, it helps to have clear guidance. Here are some of the most common questions we’re asked, with straightforward answers to point you in the right direction.
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Generally, after three years of living together, relationship property (such as the family home and shared assets) is presumed to be divided equally if you separate. There are exceptions, and you can protect your interests with a Contracting Out Agreement (“pre-nup”). It’s best to get advice early rather than waiting until problems arise.
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If you pass away without a valid will, the Administration Act 1969 sets out how your estate is divided. This may not reflect your wishes and can create stress for your family. Having a will ensures your assets go where you want them to, and makes the process smoother for your loved ones.
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It’s always easier (and usually cheaper) to get advice before making major decisions—buying property, starting a business, entering a relationship property agreement, or signing complex contracts. Early advice helps you avoid problems later on.
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Your lawyer can help you pursue repayment through the Disputes Tribunal (for debts up to $30,000) or the courts for larger sums. In some cases, we can also register security over assets or enforce payment through attachment orders.
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Yes. Property transactions in New Zealand require a lawyer to complete settlement and register the change of ownership with Land Information New Zealand (LINZ). Beyond this, your lawyer will check the title, explain any restrictions or risks, and ensure your contract protects your interests.
For advice on any of the above topics, or any other legal matter, help is just a button click away. You can complete our quick online contact form (using the button below) or call us on +64 9 486 2169, Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 5.30pm.
Immigration Updates
The Parent Boost Visa Is Coming
On 29 September 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will be releasing the new Parent Boost Visa, which is a long-term Visitor Visa, enabling parents of NZ citizens or residents to spend up to a total of ten years in NZ. The Parent Boost Visa allows for two separate five year visa applications, broken up slightly by the need to spend a brief period out of NZ during that five years.
The Parent Boost Visa was heavily campaigned on by both the National and Act parties and has taken quite a while to finally see the light of day - owing largely to the complex nature of rolling out a visa like this.
The Parent Boost Visa will come with a fairly hefty set of requirements, meaning that it won’t suit everyone, but for many parents looking to spend extended periods in NZ with their children (and grandchildren) this visa will be a really practical solution. The key requirements are as follows:
Applicants must be offshore when the visa is applied for and granted.
Applicants cannot have any dependent children.
There is a requirement to hold acceptable insurance whilst in New Zealand (which will be a relatively expensive exercise).
Applicant’s will need to be sponsored and provide evidence of sponsor’s income or their own suitable level of financial resources.
Full medicals will be required and the health assessment will be done in line with residence criteria.
Applicants will need to depart New Zealand during year four and complete a further medical and compliance check, before being able to come back to use the balance of their five years.
There will be a need to agree to the fact the visa is only temporary as well as providing evidence of some incentives to return to the home country.
Given the length of this particular visa, the Government had to put in some fairly hefty criteria which means there will be some parents who simply won’t be able to apply, however for those who do meet the criteria, having the flexibility to come and go over a five year period (10 if you can secure the second visa) will be very welcome news.
If you would like to discuss how the Parent Boost Visa works in more detail, or consider your own eligibility, then get in touch with our immigration team today (immigration@turnerhopkins.co.nz)
As we head into the warmer months and look forward to the clocks going forward and the days getting longer, it’s a great time to pause and reflect on the changes and milestones of the year so far, but also worth considering how much time you have left to wrap things up for 2025.
2025 has so far presented its challenges, however, we have also seen plenty of new opportunities, particularly in the property market and beyond. Whatever your plans for the rest of the year, buying or selling a home, reviewing your will, or simply wanting to stay up to date - we’re here to provide the legal support and advice you need.
Until next month…
