New Zealand’s legal framework recognizes that relationships, whether marriages, civil unions, or de facto partnerships, often involve shared assets and property. When these relationships come to an end, the division of property can become a complex and emotionally charged issue.
Relationship Property refers to assets and property acquired during a qualifying relationship including marriages, civil unions, or de facto relationships.
Key aspects of relationship property include equal sharing, and exceptions to this rule, asset pooling and the duration of relationship.
New Zealand’s laws provide a fair and equitable framework for the division of assets when a qualifying relationship comes to an end. The laws aim to ensure that both partners receive a fair share of the property acquired during the relationship, taking into account contributions and the length of the relationship.
Most former couples are able to agree on the divisions of their relationship property and record the agreement into a relationship property agreement that is legally binding once each party has had independent legal advice on the effects and implications of the agreement, however at time agreement can not be reached and then applications are made to the Family Court to seek division of the relationship property. We can assist with both drafting legally binding agreements reached as well as representing you in the Family Court if required.
