Harmans’ long association with Canterbury’s legal community began in 1888, when Thomas DeRenzy Harman, the son of Richard Harman, a passenger on one of the First Four Ships, established his own practice.
Over the next 100-odd years the firm was known by a number of name variations and occupied several different premises throughout Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region. Throughout that time, one constant was the presence of the Harman family, with direct descendants of Thomas DeRenzy holding prominent positions within the firm until the retirement of Colin Harman in 2009.
The firm has enjoyed continuous growth since the late 1960s, consistently expanding its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of Cantabrians. In 2003 Harmans purchased Papanui Law, and, following the devastating Christchurch earthquakes of 2011, have occupied the premises at 485 Papanui Road which accompanied that acquisition.
If there’s one feature of our business which has contributed to our longevity and continued success more than anything else, it’s been our willingness to adapt. We’re a proactive, forward-thinking law firm, continually looking for opportunities to develop the scope of our services, and always welcoming input and feedback from our incredibly loyal clients.
We’re immensely proud of the role we play in our local community, and remain passionately committed to Christchurch and the broader Canterbury area.
Innovative, intelligent business solutions
Committed to partnering with our clients in long-term, productive relationships, our Corporate and Commercial Law team have a rich history providing effective strategies and innovative solutions for a wide range of enterprises throughout Christchurch, the wider Canterbury region, and around New Zealand.
By taking the time to genuinely listen, we develop an in-depth understanding of each unique business we work alongside, tailoring solutions to suit its visions, aspirations and individual requirements. Our corporate and commercial clients range from small-to-medium businesses and start-up companies to large national and international entities, encompassing fields as diverse as finance, banking, retail, accommodation, land development, hospitality and manufacturing.
Striving for the very best results
Over the years we’ve earned a reputation for providing quality advice and effective services to banks, financial institutions and business clients on how to manage the problems that arise from insolvency. Members of INSOL New Zealand, we act on behalf of our clients to recover debts in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible, offering clear and concise advice and strong, definitive action. We also work closely with other insolvency practitioners, such as accountants, to minimise the risk and exposure arising from financial difficulties, and act on behalf of liquidators and receivers in the execution of their duties.
A history of successful outcomes
Our highly developed communication skills and a track record of exceptional results for our clients have earned us a reputation as industry-leaders in the field of litigation and dispute resolution. Throughout any litigation and dispute resolution process our goal remains the same – to achieve the best result for our client in the most cost-effective manner.
We appear regularly in all major Courts and Tribunals but ensure that in all cases we apply the most cost effective strategies including negotiation and mediation where that is the best strategy.
Here at Harmans we have a strong employment team with vast experience in advising clients in respect of employment issues.
Whether you’re an employee or an employer, seeking advice as soon as workplace issues arise or are anticipated to arise can greatly enhance the chances of a successful and satisfactory resolution being reached. At Harmans, our focus is on providing practical advice, and where necessary, resolving employment disputes as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. This is particularly important in New Zealand at present where businesses and employees alike are facing a wide range of challenges arising out of Covid-19 and the country’s ever evolving response. Staying on top of these issues is vitally important and something that Harmans is well-equipped to assist its clients with.
For employers we can provide invaluable advice to help you navigate your obligations and minimise risk, working alongside you to establish sound documents and contracts, assisting with staff communication where necessary, and ensuring the processes and procedures you have in place are robust and all-encompassing.
We have significant experience across our team in formal proceedings before both the Employment Relations Authority and New Zealand’s various Courts, and offer a wide range of alternative dispute resolution, mediation and arbitration services.
With your best interests at heart
When it comes to Family Law, the team at Harmans is arguably one of the most experienced and successful in Canterbury. In an area that is often sensitive and emotionally charged, our Family Law specialists provide support for couples establishing relationship-based agreements, and help resolve disputes when relationships come to an end.
By taking the time to develop a genuine understanding of each client’s individual circumstances, we can tailor solutions and plans that meet your specific needs. Our caring, empathetic team can handle all manner of family-related issues, from adoption and custody issues to domestic protection orders, providing advice and acting on behalf of our clients to ensure their best interests, and those of the people that depend on them, are in safe hands.
Helping you to sleep easy
For most Kiwis, their home is the biggest financial investment they will ever make, and seeking sound legal advice before signing any binding agreement is vital. Our Residential Property specialists can offer invaluable insights throughout the process of buying or selling property, arming you with the knowledge to make informed decisions, and ensuring that your best interests are catered to.
