Williams McKenzie is a Canterbury based law firm with roots dating back to 1884 in Christchurch. The firm traces its lineage through a series of mergers and name changes and operates from Rangiora, serving clients across North Canterbury and the wider region. The practice combines a practical, cost conscious approach with deep expertise across property, commercial, family, employment, private client and litigation work, enabling clients to navigate complex transactions and disputes with confidence.

The firm has earned a solid local reputation for accessible, responsive service and sound legal judgment. By pairing long standing community connections with modern legal practices, Williams McKenzie helps individuals and businesses resolve matters efficiently while protecting their interests in negotiations and disputes.

Across its client service model the firm emphasizes clear communication, transparent fees and a client focused approach. Lawyers work closely with clients to understand priorities, explain options in plain language, and deliver timely, practical solutions tailored to each case.

About Williams McKenzie

Founded in 2008


Practice areas
Real Estate
Family
Private Client
Employment & Labor
Corporate & Commercial

Languages spoken
English

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Practice areas

Real Estate

Williams McKenzie assists with conveyancing, property transactions, leasing, property agreements, refinancing and related matters, guiding buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants through New Zealand real estate processes with meticulous documentation and practical advice.
Commercial Real Estate
Housing, Construction & Development
Foreclosure
Land Use & Zoning
Landlord & Tenant
Mortgage
Real Estate Due Diligence
Real Estate Contracts and Negotiations
Brokerage
Conveyancing

Family

In Family matters the firm handles guidance on separation, parenting arrangements and relationship property, prioritising sensible negotiations, settlements and, when necessary, advocacy in court to protect clients interests.
Adoption
Child Abuse
Child Custody
Child Support
Child Visitation
Collaborative Law
Divorce & Separation
Domestic Violence
Father's Rights
Marriage
Military Divorce
Same Sex & LGBT
Annulment

Private Client

In Private Client matters the firm provides estate planning, wills, trusts, powers of attorney and asset protection strategies for individuals and families, with a focus on durable plans and orderly succession.
Elder Law
Estate Planning
Guardianship
Nursing Home Abuse
Probate
Trusts
Will & Testament
Elder Abuse Law
Inheritance Law

Employment & Labor

In Employment and Labor matters the firm advises employers and employees on contracts, workplace policies, disciplinary processes, redundancies and compliance with New Zealand employment law, aiming to resolve disputes efficiently and minimize risk.
Employment Rights
Hiring & Firing
Job Discrimination
Labor Law
Pension
Retirement
Sexual Harassment
Social Security
Wage & Hour
Wrongful Termination
Whistleblower & Qui Tam
Employment Benefits & Executive Compensation

Corporate & Commercial

In Corporate and Commercial matters Williams McKenzie guides businesses through commercial contracts, company structures, governance, financing, mergers and acquisitions, due diligence and dispute resolution.
Administrative
Admiralty & Maritime
Agriculture
Antitrust
Aviation
Business Registration
Contract
Due Diligence
Franchising
Gaming
Government Contract
Licensing
Merger & Acquisition
Transportation
Venture Capital
Cannabis Law
Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations
International Trade Law
Government Relations & Lobbying
Private Equity
Corporate Governance
Sanctions & Export Controls