We have deep experience recruiting professional staff for law firms right across the country. While our offices are based in Auckland, we work with clients on opportunities up and down New Zealand covering all major centres and regional areas. We are constantly expanding and maintaining our active and passive candidate networks to ensure we offer an accurate, efficient and timely response to our clients requirements.
The roles we recruit for and the practice areas we cover are as follows:
Solicitor
Senior Solicitor
Associate
Senior Associate
Special Counsel / Principal
Partner
Legal practice areas we have industry knowledge and opportunities in:
Property
General Practice
Commercial
Corporate / M&A
Construction
Intellectual property
Technology
Dispute Resolution / Litigation
Insurance
Resource Management
Tax
Trusts & Private Wealth planning
Competition Law
Public law
FIND THE NEXT ROLE FOR YOU
-
Auckland
Litigation Lawyer | 2+ years PQE
The Firm & Opportunity Join a well established practice with a diverse client base and a team of skilled litigation lawyers. They’re now looking for a civil litigation lawyer with around 2+ years of civil litigation experience to assist on a broad range of matters including insolvency, trusts, estates, property, defamation and contractual disputes. You'll be directly mentored by an experienced partner and work in a specialist, close knit team with a flat structure. About you: Around 2+ experience gained within a law firm in NZ with some relevant civil litigation experience; An ability to build rapport with clients and cut through legal issues; Good communication and problem-solving skills; and Passionate about advocacy work. You may currently be in a general practice role with some exposure to litigation and looking to specialise more in civil litigation, or you might be in a niche litigation role wanting broaden your exposure to general litigation matters. Either way, this is a chance to work under experienced mentor in a team with a genuinely family friendly culture. Get in touch to find out more. To discuss further, contact Bob Kou 027 274 5926 or email your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or apply by clicking 'APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Litigation Solicitor - Junior / Intermediate
The Role:We are working with a national law firm with a strong reputation in the legal industry with a modern and progressive approach to practicing law. Situated in the heart of the Christchurch CBD, this litigation team operate across a variety of areas of litigation such as construction, health and safety, insolvency, liquidations, debt recovery, contract disputes, insurance and intellectual property. We are now seeking an intermediate level solicitor who is keen to develop their career in an ambitious and supportive environment. About You: Ideally, you’ll be 1-3 years PQE and have experience working across litigation or dispute resolution files. We are looking for someone who has great written and verbal communication skills, who adds to the culture of the team and likes to work collaboratively. What’s On Offer: Enjoy working in the heart of the Christchurch CBD in beautiful, modern offices near cafes, shops and restaurants $500 annual wellbeing allowance Flexibility in hours and the ability to work from home Partners who are forward-thinking in their approach Clear progression plans 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.
Apply now -
Hamilton
Solicitors | Hamilton & Waikato legal opportunities
We are currently working with firms in Hamilton and in surrounding regions that are looking to expand their teams. Each of these practices is forward thinking in their approach, have systems in place to ensure there is ongoing development for their lawyers, mentorship and opportunities to get involved in interesting work. If one of the below positions piques your interest, get in touch: 3-5 year PQE: Trusts, Estates and Elder Law: a thriving general practice law firm with a collaborative team environment, regular reviews to recognise good performance where you will be valued for your work. 3+ year PQE Civil & Commercial Litigation Lawyer: highly regarded specialist team, with plenty of support and the ability to have a work/life balance while also getting involved in an interesting range of disputes. 2-4 year PQE Commercial Property & Commercial Lawyer in a leading full service firm. Top clientele and mentorship working with some of the best, with large-scale developers, high net worth individuals, investors, local government clients and corporates. Senior Commercial or Litigation lawyer (short term partnership track possible): Areas of interest are Commercial or Dispute Resolution. Well-established team, modern systems and great benefits. Flexibility and hybrid working options provided. Whether you're looking at a relocation to Hamilton or the surrounding Waikato region, or you're currently working in the region but aren't sure that where you are is the right place to build your career, get in touch to find our more about any of the options. For a confidential chat about any of the above opportunities, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or email your CV and academic transcript to anand@colegal.co.nz or apply by clicking on 'APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Tax Lawyer | Senior Solicitor 3-7 years PQE
Senior Tax Lawyer – Complex, High-Profile Work Join a leading commercial law firm in its high-performing Tax team. You’ll work closely with a highly regarded tax partner, gaining exposure to tax matters on some of the country’s most significant deals. This includes mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, financing, securitisation, and corporate transactions. You’ll collaborate with both local and international clients across a variety of sectors, providing commercially focused, strategic advice on tax structures and solutions that support their business goals. This is a friendly social team with a supportive culture and modern systems that allow you to focus on doing your best work. You’ll be part of a collaborative environment where growth is genuinely fast-tracked, and you’ll have the chance to work on headline-making transactions. About you: 3–7 years’ PQE in New Zealand tax law or tax consulting Strong academics (a B average or higher in your LLB is essential) Eligible to hold a New Zealand practising certificate Experience gained in a reputable law firm or leading accounting practice This role could suit someone currently working in a top accounting firm who’s looking to grow their legal career, or someone returning from overseas, ready to take up an exciting opportunity with a leading firm. For further information, contact Jenny on 027 874 0993 or email your CV and academic record to jenny@colegal.co.nz or by clicking ‘QUICK APPLY’ now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Tech, Media, Telco lawyer | Senior Associate
Join a leading full-service practice in its growing specialist Technology, Media & Telecommunications team. This is a great opportunity for a commercial lawyer who has a passion for these sectors and is keen to work with clients that range from major players in the telco sector, institutional clients, to progressive local government departments. The work involves providing advice throughout the stages of large-scale ICT projects, working on software development and licensing agreements, advising on privacy matters and marketing materials, procurement and supply chain advice.The team culture is down to earth, collaborative and not overly corporate and values those who have a business development outlook as well as commercial acumen. About you: 6+ years' experience as a commercial lawyer with at least some experience in the TMT sector. Those who are currently working in-house and keen to return to a private practice role are of interest also; A client-focused approach and an ability to provide commercially savvy advice; Ability to mentor juniors and takes a collaborative approach; and be able to work with a good level of autonomy. If you're ready for a new challenge and are passionate about being an expert in the TMT sector, then enquire now to find out more about this excellent opportunity. Those returning from overseas with relevant experience are very much of interest also. For a confidential chat, contact jenny Gallagher on 027 874 0993 or email your CV and academic transcript to jenny@colegal.co.nz or apply by clicking QUICK APPLY now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Commercial Property Lawyer | Junior to Intermediate Level
About the position We have a fantastic opportunity to join a commercial property specialist team with one of our clients who works with leading players within the property industry, corporates, large-scale developers, investors and high net-worth clients. The law firm is well-established and the property team works in a collaborative way to provide exceptional client service. You'd have good mentorship from partners, working in a supportive team with a good sense of humour and a down to earth approach. 1 day WFH and flex start/finish times would be possible there. This role has a unique mix of work including: drafting property related contracts, acting for developers on subdivisions, advising on commercial leasing matters, property finance, commercial property acquisition, disposals and property syndication. About you 1.5-4 years' PQE property experience (varied experience in commercial property transactions and developments, with commercial leasing exposure being beneficial); Strong problem solving and organisational skills; Interpersonal skills to work in a close-knit team setting; and Good academics around B average or above. Perhaps you're keen to take a step up in the property work you do, or you want to join a team that has a steady flow of interesting matters. Find out more to see if this could be the right option for you. 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.
Apply now -
Christchurch
Property / Private Client / Disputes Solicitor
Do you like the variety of working across different areas of law and don’t want to be pigeon-holed into being a specialist in only one field? Our client is looking for a junior to intermediate solicitor with a good general practice base to join their firm, so this could be a perfect fit! This small firm supports their clients across a variety of legal needs, including: Property / conveyancing, leasing, refinancing Private client – wills, trusts, estates, EPOAs Litigation – civil, commercial and criminal Family – care of children, relationship property, dissolution of marriage and contracting out agreements They have room to grow in each of these areas so we are open to looking at where you’ve built your experience and what your strengths are and tailoring the role to fit that. The most important thing is that you’ll be eager to develop your career, build your client base and do great legal work that contributes to the team. About You: Qualified Solicitor with a current New Zealand practising certificate 2 - 4 years of general practice experience in a law firm NZ working rights What’s On Offer: Competitive salary package commensurate with experience Be part of a tight-knit, collaborative team Down-to-earth, non corporate approach to practising law 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.
Apply now -
Wellington
Australian Legal Opportunities | Solicitors
We are partnering with firms across various locations in Australia who are actively hiring for experienced NZ qualified lawyers, with the ability to offer a strong remuneration package, quality work as well as career progression. While the London market is still recovering, a move to Australia means you don't need to requalify and there is still a healthy level of demand for lawyers where you can get exposure to international work. Key practice areas experiencing demand include: Front-end Commercial Construction Commercial Litigation & Insolvency Corporate Finance Insurance Litigation Corporate / M&A Intellectual Property If you're a NZ qualified lawyer that would like to start forward planning for a move overseas, now is the time to get in touch to hear what your options are in the market and what salaries look like for your background. Likewise, if you're thinking of a return from the UK and are deciding between NZ and Australia, we can help inform you of the differences between the legal markets in each jurisdiction. The clients we're working with can provide for relocation packages / assistance, so that you are well-set up for the move. To discuss further, contact Bob Kou 027 274 5926 or email your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or apply by clicking 'APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Senior Associate Corporate & Commercial Lawyer - Part-Time, School Hours
About the Role This is a rare chance to work on quality corporate and commercial matters with real flexibility. The role is part-time, designed around school hours. You’ll handle a broad range of work, including M&A, commercial contracts, business structuring, and shareholder arrangements. You’ll work closely with partners and well-established clients, many of whom have trusted this team for years. You’ll have plenty of client contact, real responsibility, and the chance to support and mentor junior lawyers if that’s something you’re interested in. What’s on Offer Part-time role, school hours Supportive, friendly team with a strong reputation High-quality, interesting work across a range of sectors Long-term client relationships Competitive salary Good systems and support About You You’re a senior corporate or commercial lawyer with solid experience in M&A, contract negotiation, and general advisory work. You’re looking for a role that offers balance and flexibility, while keeping you engaged with quality legal work and valued clients. You’ll enjoy working directly with clients and being part of a team that genuinely cares about the people they work with and the people they work for.If you’re interested, please apply now or contact Jenny directly for a confidential chat at 027 874 0993 or jenny@colegal.co.nz. I’m happy to talk through the role and answer any questions.
Apply now -
Auckland
Criminal Lawyer (PAL 1) | 1-2 years PQE
The Firm & Opportunity Join a well established practice with a diverse clientele and team of highly skilled lawyers. They are now looking for a Criminal Lawyer with around 1-3 years solid relevant experience gained in advocacy based work. Mentored by senior lawyers that have a strong reputation, the role will have a focus on dealing with a variety of criminal law matters including disputes related to burglary, theft, drug charges, sexual offences, traffic and the like. You'll be able to some family law work if it's of interest to you.About you: Around 1-2 years of experience gained with a law firm or criminal defence organisation or Barrister with some relevant litigation experience; An ability to build rapport with clients and cut through legal issues; Good communication and problem-solving skills; and Holding PAL 1 status. You may be in a general litigation role, with an interest in criminal law, or in a criminal law role and keen to diversify your range of work in a team that can offer some family law work, with time in court and advancement prospects. Either way get in touch to find out more. To discuss further, contact Bob Kou 027 274 5926 or email your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or apply by clicking 'APPLY' now.
Apply now