EXPERTS IN LEGAL
RECRUITMENT

Christchurch

Senior Associate to Director - Property / Private Client

The role It’s not often that such a unique opportunity comes up that offers a clear path to Director! Our client is a well-established law firm with decades of experience and local connections under their belt, a solid client base and a different approach than your old-fashioned, traditional law firm. Based in beautiful Nelson, this is an opportunity to relocate to a place where the commute is minimal, the beaches and wineries are close by and the National Park is on your doorstep! As an addition to their general practice firm they are looking to bring on a leader who is seeking a Director level role within a tight-knit firm where you’re more than a number, your voice is heard and you actually still have time for a life outside of work. We’re on the hunt for a superstar in Property Law and Private Client work (wills, trusts, estates) – and if you have general commercial experience, that would be a bonus (but not a deal breaker). What’s on offer Wellbeing is a big focus (and commitment) of this firm. They are a team who work hard but also believe it’s important to disconnect, put down the tools and focus on family and other priorities outside of hours. Flexibility and a collaborative team approach to work allows everyone to win – you get the flex you need around your lifestyle while the firm’s clients receive a great result. A beautiful spot to call home – with beaches, cafes, wineries and walking trails on your doorstep! If you’re an ambitious leader and want to take the next step in your career in one of the South Island’s most beautiful locations, let’s have a chat about this role.      Reach out to Liz Sloan for a confidential discussion at CoLegal Recruitment – liz@colegal.co.nz or 027 211 6718.

Senior Associate to Director - Property / Private Client

The role It’s not often that such a unique opportunity comes up that offers a clear path to Director! Our client is a well-established law firm with decades of experience and local connections under their belt, a solid client base and a different approach than your old-fashioned, traditional law firm. As an addition to their general practice firm, they are looking to bring on a leader who is seeking a Director level role within a tight-knit firm where you’re more than a number, your voice is heard and you actually still have time for a life outside of work. We’re on the hunt for a superstar in Property Law and Private Client work (wills, trusts, estates) – and if you have general commercial experience, that would be a bonus (but not a deal breaker). What’s on offer Wellbeing is a big focus (and commitment) of this firm. They are a team who work hard but also believe it’s important to disconnect, put down the tools and focus on family and other priorities outside of hours. Flexibility and a collaborative team approach to work allows everyone to win – you get the flex you need around your lifestyle while the firm’s clients receive a great result. A beautiful spot to call home – with beaches, cafes, wineries and walking trails on your doorstep! If you’re an ambitious leader and want to take the next step in your career in one of the South Island’s most beautiful locations, let’s have a chat about this role.      Reach out to Liz Sloan for a confidential discussion at CoLegal Recruitment – liz@colegal.co.nz or 027 211 6718.

Auckland

Commercial Litigation Lawyer (2-6 PQE)

I’m working with a high-calibre disputes team in central Auckland that’s looking for a talented litigation lawyer to join their growing practice. This is a standout opportunity to build depth in your litigation career with a team that’s known for its breadth of work, strong mentoring, and down-to-earth culture.You’ll be joining a high-performing team known for its collaborative culture and technical depth. The practice is involved in a mix of commercial disputes and high-profile claims Why this team?   Strong development focus, Partners are hands-on and genuinely back junior and mid-level lawyers Clear pathways for progression, without internal politics A healthy mix of local and international clients, from listed corporates to fast-growing private businesses A collaborative, grounded team that prioritises quality work without the late-night culture A firm-wide commitment to diversity, community, and wellbeing. What you’ll need:     2 to 6 years’ PQE in commercial litigation or dispute resolution Strong academics Strong drafting and analytical skills Confidence in managing files and contributing to strategy A pragmatic, client-focused approach If you're looking for a role where you’ll get great court exposure, mentoring, and the chance to work on interesting disputes with a smart and supportive team, get in touch.   How to applyClick “QUICK APPLY” or contact Jenny for a confidential discussion on 027 874 0993, or email your CV and academic transcript to jenny@colegal.co.nz. All enquiries will be treated discreetly.

Wellington

Resource Management Lawyer | 2+ years' PQE

About the firm and roleThis is an exciting growth opportunity for an intermediate level to work in a leading law firm. This is a chance to be involved in work that will be affected by the RMA reforms, working for a firm that has modern systems, a well-supported and friendly team and where you'll be mentored across a variety of work. The work is to a high standard and you'll learn from the industry bests. Working with a broad range of public and private sector clients including government agencies and major multinational corporates. In this role, you'll work with partners in matters before the Environment Court, mediations and appeal stages. There will also be some strategy and advisory work but it will be a chance to hone your advocacy skills if you enjoy doing some litigious work. You'll be involved in resource consenting and planning matters, enforcement matters, judicial review decisions, public law matters and infrastructure related project work including waste water management. About you The ideal candidate will have: 2+ years' experience within a well regarded resource management and/or environment and planning team or general litigation skills, or skills gained in-house in public law / RMA with a keen interest to transfer your skills into the RMA area; Some working knowledge of the resource management legislative framework (ideally you studied this paper at uni); Quality drafting and advocacy skills; An interest in further developing your career as a resource management lawyer. Perhaps you're reflecting on where you're headed for the second half of 2025 and thinking about a move to a practice where you can be mentored, or you're looking to become a specialist RMA team, or a place that has a structure that will allow you grow to take your career to the next level - if this sounds like you, then get in touch to find out more.Those with experience in a relevant area from the public or in-house sector, or someone returning from Australia or the UK with relevant experience, are also of interest. For a confidential chat, contact Bob Kou on 027 274 5926 or by sending your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or by clicking on 'APPLY' now.

Auckland

Trust & Estates Lawyer | Partner | Auckland

Trusts & Estates Partner A rare opportunity to join a well-established, relationship-led firm with a loyal private client base built over generations. You'll take over a respected practice advising high-net-worth individuals, family trusts, and multigenerational family groups. The work includes asset protection, succession planning, and long-term wealth structuring. You’ll lead a close-knit team and nurture long-term relationships with loyal, sophisticated clients, combining strong leadership with genuine client care. Ideal for a senior associate ready to move into partnership or a current partner seeking a more meaningful practice with genuine autonomy and strong internal support. About the role: Manage an intergenerational client base with complex estate planning, wealth management, asset protection and asset structure Build and preserve long-standing client relationships with a focus on trust, discretion, and continuity Lead and mentor a close-knit legal team, providing oversight and guidance Collaborate closely with colleagues across property, family, litigation and commercial teams Contribute to firm strategy and succession planning Experience and qualifications: NZ-qualified and currently practising solicitor, with NZ working rights 10+ years’ PQE in trusts and estates, private client law, or related practice areas Proven experience advising a broad range of private clients, including families and high net worth individuals, with sensitivity and discretion Demonstrated ability to lead teams and nurture legal talent Deep knowledge of New Zealand trust law and estate administration Strong judgment, excellent communication skills, and genuine client empathy If you’re looking for a long-term move where your experience and relationships are genuinely valued, this is a rare chance to build something lasting. How to apply Click “QUICK APPLY” or contact Jenny for a confidential discussion on 027 874 0993, or email your CV and academic transcript to jenny@colegal.co.nz. All enquiries will be treated discreetly.

Auckland

$130,000 - $180,000 + Kiwi Saver

5+ PQE Employment Lawyer | Associate/Senior Associate

A national law firm is looking for a lawyer with 5+ years’ employment law experience to join its employment team in Auckland. The team is recognised for its depth of experience, collaborative culture, and high-quality work. The workThis is a senior opportunity within a high-performing team that advises a wide range of employers, including large corporates, government agencies, and multinationals, on all aspects of employment law. You will be working on a mix of litigation, advisory, and transactional support. The role offers exposure to major employers across the public and private sectors, both in Aotearoa and internationally. You’ll advise on restructures, investigations, grievances, employment agreements, health and safety, privacy, union matters, and collective bargaining. You’ll also act in mediations and regularly appear in the Employment Relations Authority and Court. The size of the team allows lawyers to specialise or broaden their experience, depending on their interests. The work is often complex, high-profile profile and nationally significant. The team The employment practice is one of the largest in the country, with a mix of partners, senior lawyers and juniors working together across three offices. The culture is supportive, respectful, and team-focused. Senior lawyers and partners are hands-on in mentoring, and there’s a strong focus on professional development, training, and flexibility. You You’ll have solid employment law experience, or be a litigator interested in specialising in this space. You’ll be confident advising clients, keen to keep developing, and enjoy working closely with colleagues at all levels. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with good judgment and the ability to build relationships. Why apply Flexible working options (hybrid, flexi-hours, and leave) Structured learning and development A diverse, inclusive workplace where people are respected and supported Competitive salary  Career growth with clear promotion pathways A strong focus on wellbeing, including mental health support, wellness payments, generous leave policies, and TOIL for legal staff Industry-leading parental leave and family support Social connection through firm-wide and local events A supportive and down-to-earth team that backs your success If you're looking for high-quality work in a team that values its people and prioritises long-term careers, this role offers a rare opportunity. For a confidential discussion about the role, call Jenny Gallagher on 027 874 0993 or email a copy of your CV and academics to jenny@colegal.co.nz or by clicking ‘APPLY’ now.

Auckland

2+ PQE Commercial Property & Commercial Lawyer

The Opportunity Our client takes a progressive approach with clients and staff and they have a strong reputation in the market as a result. The team takes a relationship focused approach to servicing its clients and are looking for someone to join their collaborative team. You'll get exposed to clients ranging from financial institutions, sporting organisations, developers, charitable institutions and high profile property investors.Day-to-day you will work with a decent level of independence and guidance of experienced partners on complex commercial property acquisitions and disposals, working on property development projects, comple commercial leasing matters, infrastructure matters, company structuring matters, overseas investment, joint venture projects and financing matters. About you:  2+ years PQE. This may have been gained in a small or larger practice but some relevant commercial property experience is key; You might either have a corporate legal background or a property legal background, but with an interest in doing a mix of work between these areas; Interpersonal skills to relate well to a range of clients; Interest in further developing your skills with a commercial mindset; and A decent university academic record.  Perhaps you would like to move to a firm where you can get exposure to more complex deals and projects? Or maybe you're currently at a top-tier firm and would like to join a team with a flatter structure, where you can truly get involved in the work, being able to learn from partners who take the time to get to know you and your career plans? Either way, get in touch to find out more about this position and whether this could be a good fit for you.For a confidential discussion about the position, call Jenny Gallagher on 027 874 0993 or email a copy of your CV and academics to jenny@colegal.co.nz or by clicking ‘APPLY’ now.

Christchurch

Associate / Senior Associate - Private Client or Property

Our client is a well-established law firm with a long history of providing legal support within the Canterbury region. Like many firms in Christchurch, they've recently made a move into new premises and offer a great location within the CBD. This full service firm works across various areas of law and are now looking to hire an experienced Associate or Senior Associate to join their team. The Role: We are looking for a skilled Solicitor with expertise in either property and conveyancing law or private client work (wills, trusts, estates, EPOAs). Our client is growing and has space in either of those areas - or maybe you have experience across both? Ideally you'll have a minimum of 5 years PQE and you'll be someone who enjoys mentoring more junior staff members and being in a leadership position.    This is a full time opportunity with a clear structure for progression including a pathway to partnership down the line (if desired).  The Firm: This mid-sized firm is professional but down-to-earth, love to have a laugh and ambitiously work to be the best for themselves and their clients. We are looking for someone with the same level of drive - while they pride themselves on no over time hours required, we do want someone who wants to put in the mahi and wants to do their best work.    What’s On Offer: Competitive salary package commensurate with experience Modern offices within the CBD Carpark / carparking allowance Southern Cross Health Insurance Birthday leave Work / life balance    For a confidential chat about this opportunity, contact Liz Sloan on 027 211 6718 or send your CV and academic record to liz@colegal.co.nz. Alternatively, click APPLY now to submit your application. 

Auckland

$170,000+

Senior Corporate Lawyer | 6+ years PQE

The OpportunityAn exciting position has become available for an ambitious corporate lawyer who enjoys working in a transactions-focused team at a reputable full service firm. Our client is a trusted advisor to international businesses, growing Kiwi organisations and high net-worth entrepreneurial clients. They advise clients through different stages of business growth, their mergers and acquisitions (which forms a good portion of the work), joint venture arrangements, shareholder agreements, NZX listed company matters, takeovers and capital raising matters. Clients span a diverse range of industry sectors and you can have a good level of involvement in the work you do and the chance to contribute throughout the entirety of the deals you work on. You'll be working with a partner that takes pride in mentoring staff and being available.  About you: 6+ years PQE with solid Corporate legal experience; Experience gained in a top-tier firm or highly regarded Corporate team where you've had some M&A experience; An interest in learning and continuing to grow your Corporate legal career under good mentorship; NZ qualified; and Good academics (B average or higher in your degree). Perhaps you're thinking about a return from overseas and looking to join a top corporate legal team with scope for progression, maybe you want access to larger-scale and more complex deals than you're getting now. Either way, get in contact with us to find out more about this position. NZ qualified lawyers looking to return from overseas are encouraged to apply.   To learn more about this opportunity, contact Bob on 027 274 5926 or email your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or by clicking 'APPLY' now.