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
General Practice Lawyer | Senior (Remote)
Due to internal movement and growth, our client is looking for a senior (or mid-senior) lawyer with experience across some of the following relevant areas: Business transactions Property Conveyancing - residential, rural and commercial Subdivisions Company structuring matters Commercial contracting Trusts and asset planning Estate administration Wills and Powers of Attorney Relationship property The firm's culture is supportive, down to earth and family friendly, where you'll be trusted with client contact and the ability to run files on your own where you feel comfortable. For areas where you don't have experience or have knowledge gaps, the partners are willing to invest in your training and development. The firm invests in modern technology and cloud based systems to help you operate efficiently. You will have: 7+ years PQE in general practice from any of the areas including property, commercial and private client work; An ability to build rapport with clients and cultivate strong client relationships; Good communication and problem solving skills. This is a firm that has a steady stream of work, an established client base and one that takes care of its staff. If having the flexibility to work from home for personal or lifestyle reasons, or to reduce travel time, and you’re someone who can operate with a good degree of independence, then this might be the perfect opportunity for you.For a confidential chat, contact Bob Kou on 027 274 5926 or apply by sending your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or by clicking on 'APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Commercial Litigation Lawyer | Senior Associate
The Opportunity:This is a newly created opportunity for an experienced commercial litigator to join a forward-thinking firm and be involved in an interesting mix of commercial litigation matters as well as some regulatory disputes work where you'd have work that has an international flavour. You'd have hands on exposure to a range of disputes including shareholder disputes, securities and fair trading matters, ESG, greenwashing, breach of director duties cases, contractual and negligence claims, competition and consumer law issuesand regulatory investigations.You will be someone who enjoys variety in a role and being immersed from start to finish on complex litigation files. You'd work with a team and partner that will allow you to take on a good degree of file and client management responsibility but also provide you with adequate support and, there is the chance to get involved in High Court trials, arbitrations and ADR processes to develop your advocacy skills. They're looking for someone that also has experience mentoring and delegating to juniors, which would support you in this role. You’d have scope for progression as the firm is in growth mode.About you: 6+ years' PQE in commercial litigation work - ideally from a leading law firm or litigation team; An ability to cut through issues and problem solve; and A strong academic record. Perhaps you're considering a move back to NZ in time for the summer or looking for a genuine senior level role where you can make an impact and be at the forefront of headline making cases, in a team that's passionate about the work they do. Or if you’re looking for a role that would set you up with experience dealing with disputes in international markets, then this would be a great step up to give you stronger options in the future.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 'QUICK APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Banking and Finance Lawyer | Senior Sol or SA
Perhaps you've recently returned from overseas or are planning to? Join a highly acclaimed banking and finance team. This role will see you working with banking and finance partners on a range transactions with a bent towards structured finance, acquisition finance, securitisation and corporate finance. The team is high performing and well-supported with a mix of juniors and seniors. There are opportunities for advancement for the person going into this role based on merit and performance. This position has come about due to growth in work and will involve working with institutional lenders, corporates and private investors. The team has good administrative support and created efficiencies with AI adoption, so that you can work effectively in focusing on the legal work. About you: 5+ years PQE in banking and finance A team player with strong interpersonal skills; Ability to hold a NZ practising certificate; and Experience gained within a leading law firm or within an in-house legal team of a financial services organisation. If you're overseas and planning to return to NZ in the next 6 months, it's a good time to start the conversation around what your options for a return may look like or to secure a role for 2026.Top remuneration is on offer for the right person. 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 'QUICK APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Construction & Commercial Lawyer | 2+ years PQE
About the firm & opportunityThis is a unique opportunity to join a highly-ranked and leading construction & projects team led by experts in this field. Joining the team at an exciting time as they continue to grow their energy and infractice practice as well as being involved in PPP's, major construction projects, joint ventures, procurement, energy supply arrangements and development work. You'll be acting on behalf of blue-chip corporate clients, government institutions and contractors. If you have an interest in playing a key part in delivering on complex projects, be it for large-scale transport and infrastructure matters, solar energy or high-value urban development projects, you will be well-placed in a team from which you can learn from. The firm is well-regarded for its high-quality commercial, projects and construction work and promotes career growth based on merit. You'll have the support from partners and seniors in the team who have a depth of industry knowledge under their belt providing the chance to hone in on your skills in this area. It's a flat structured team so you'll have end to end involvement in files you're a part of. About you 2+ years' PQE experience in front-end construction and/or general corporate / commercial law background. A commercial property background could be considered also. You may have a background in private practice or a relevant in-house legal role. An interest in building a legal career in commercial construction and major projects work; A decent university academic record (B average or higher); and Be commercially minded and enjoy project based work. This role would suit someone returning from overseas, foreign qualified lawyers with the right to work in NZ would be considered also. Likewise, it could suit someone form a general commercial legal background, keen to move into this practice area which is growing in NZ. For further information, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or by sending your CV and academic transcript to anand@colegal.co.nz or by clicking on 'APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Senior Associate | Corp & Commercial Solicitor (part time)
This is your opportunity to take a meaningful step in your career with a respected Auckland CBD firm that values excellence, flexibility and long term relationships. If you're looking for a place where people and performance are genuinely prioritised, we’d love to hear from you. Why this role High-quality transactional work with a steady and manageable deal flow Work with successful privately owned NZ businesses, start ups to international organisations Join a tight-knit team where your experience will be valued Be mentored by commercially sharp, approachable partners Flexible structure: Full-time/part-time (30hrs p/w) + 1-2 days WFH Modern tools, systems, and a forward-thinking culture What you’ll be doing: Business sales and purchases (shares and assets), joint ventures, and restructures Shareholder agreements, partnership and franchising arrangements Commercial contract drafting and negotiation across a range of sectors Contributing to client strategy and building strong ongoing relationships Supporting and mentoring junior team members Staying up to date with developments in business law and industry trends This is a role where you’ll step into real client responsibility, with the guidance of experienced mentors and the support of a close-knit, high-performing team. Who we’re looking for: NZ qualified and admitted lawyer with 6+ years PQE in corporate and commercial law (more senior applicants are also of interest) Some M&A and transactional experience would be ideal Clear communicator with sound commercial judgment Client-focused, self-motivated, and a team player Tech-savvy, with an interest in looking at more efficient ways of working Why you’ll thrive here: This is a firm where people enjoy coming to work. There’s room to grow, the work is varied and interesting, and everyone works together collaboratively. You’ll be supported, recognised and given space to make your mark, with flexibility and part time options to accommodate family commitments. 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 'QUICK APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Junior Family Lawyer | 1-2 yrs PQE
About the role: The work would include CoCA matters (parenting and protection orders, custody arrangements etc), family violence cases, paternity and adoption matters, mediations and judicial settlement conferences and defended Family Court cases A blend of Legal Aid and private paying client work, with cases allocated based on urgency and capacity Regular court work The firm has open plan offices to facilitate communication and collaboration and are strong on team support and active supervision You'll be provided with file clinics, peer mentoring and collaborative problem solving which are built into how the team operates What you need to bring: 1–2 years’ PQE in family law (this isn’t a role for grads or students) but those with more experience are of interest too A collaborative approach, this is a close-knit and open team A genuine interest in family law, working with clients going through difficult times NZ qualified lawyer An interest in developing your court and advocacy skills What’s on offer: A great opportunity to build your family law and relationship property experience through a variety of work and clients Competitive salary for your level Flat billing target and transparent bonus paid quarterly Exposure to meaningful and complex work from day one A team that prioritises support, growth and doing good work together You may come from a background supporting a family law barrister and keen to move into a firm where you can grow or likewise you could be interested in a role where you can be mentored to grow and also get court work. Get in touch to learn more. 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 'QUICK APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Employment Lawyer | 3+ years PQE
The Firm This is an opportunity to join a leading firm in a diverse employment law role. Working across specialist employment law partners, you'll be a part of a close-knit team where you will receive direct training and mentorship from seniors to grow your skills. They collaborate on more complex files and advise NZX listed businesses and corporate clients, high net worth execs and public sector organisations on strategic employment law matters and help them resolve disputes. The Work As an integral part of the team, you'll take on a high level of responsibility from the outset, gaining hands-on experience across a broad range of employment law matters. You'll work on both contentious and advisory issues including employment aspects of corporate transactions, restructuring advice, disciplinary investigations, personal grievance claims, bullying and discrimination matters, policy development, and preparation for mediations and ERA hearings. There is also scope to get involved in health and safety, privacy and human rights work. This role offers a strong platform to refine your drafting and advocacy skills while deepening your expertise in complex employment law matters. About You: 3+ years PQE in employment law gained in either the context of a private practice or in-house role or an employment relations role (if employment is part of your litigation experience that will also be considered); A genuine interest in building your employment law career; High standard of written and verbal communication skills; NZ qualified lawyer; and B average or higher in law grades. Perhaps you're looking to step up the clientele and complexity of employment matters you work on, or maybe you want to move from an in-house or private practice role with solid employment law experience and specialise in this area – 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 -
Christchurch
Solicitor, General Practice
Our client is a well-established law firm with a long history of providing legal support within the Canterbury region. This full service firm works across various areas of law and are now looking to hire a General Practice Solicitor to assist across an interesting mix of legal work. The Role: We are looking for a Solicitor between 1-3 years PQE who has strong drafting skills, feels comfortable interacting with clients and is a good team player. This role will help the team succeed as you grow your own legal career while having the chance to explore different areas of law. Key responsibilities will include: Residential property and conveyancing work Relationship property files (contracting out agreements and separation agreements) Private client work (wills, trusts, EPOAs and some estate work) Commercial property Litigation work This is a unique opportunity to build a versatile foundation in a few different areas of law. This is a full time role, but for the right person we would look at flexible working options. About You: - Qualified Solicitor with a current New Zealand practising certificate - 1-3 years of recent experience working in a legal firm - A genuine people person and team player who likes to pitch in - Great drafting skills and strong verbal and written communication What’s On Offer: This firm is professional but down-to-earth and are very people-centric. Located in the CBD, they offer a great opportunity for someone who wants to do good quality legal work in a firm that values 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.
Apply now -
Auckland
Property Lawyer | Junior-Int
This opportunity:Our client is a long standing full service city law firm - it's a great opportunity for a junior property lawyer to step up from a general practice environment and hone your skills in more complex or larger scale property and commercial work. You'll be joining a close knit, supportive team where you'd be working on a good variety of property matters including commercial and residential property transactions, commercial leasing, business transactions, financing and security arrangements, as well as subdivisions and property development matters.The main supervising partner is approachable, pragmatic and client-focused, and the team works closely together to deliver positive outcomes. This means you'll get plenty of guidance, exposure to interesting files and the chance to hone your legal skills through hands on work.What we’re looking for: NZ qualified lawyer 1.5+ years’ experience with some property transactional experience gained in a reputable firm Collegial, engaging and a team player who's keen to contribute to a team environment This role is ideal for a junior lawyer whose had some property experience and is ready to take a step up in a specialist team. Or, if you're looking for a friendly, collaborative environment where you won't need to do long hours while also having a clear path to grow your career, this could be a great fit.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 'QUICK APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Trusts & Asset Planning Lawyer | 3+ years PQE
With long standing roots and a multi generational clientele, yet with modern operating systems and a progressive approach to working, our client is recognised for the high calibre of service they provide across their specialty areas. They now have the opportunity for a Private Client Lawyer with at least 3 years of experience to join their team and play an integral role in supporting private wealth and asset planning work for a well built up clientele of high net worth individuals, investors, businesses and families. The RoleThis is a role where you can work with a good level of autonomy with private clients and assist them in their personal affairs as it relates to trusts, wills, estates, wealth and intergenerational succession planning, powers of attorney, inheritance planning, asset structuring and relationship property matters (contracting out agreements, separation agreements and around division of assets).As a firm that is invested in their staff, you will be provided with the right resources and ample amount of training and support from an approachable partner as well as the wider team.About youTo be successful in this role, you will ideally have: 3-8 years' solid legal experience with a decent amount of trusts, and/or relationship property and private client experience. Those on the junior end that have gained experience in a large firm or in a tax team, that are keen to move into this area are of interest also; An ability to communicate well and build rapport with a range of private clients from different backgrounds and ages; and Sound drafting skills and the ability to provide advice in a clear and concise manner. This is a unique opportunity to join a vibrant and dynamic team where you can continue to build your skills under a reputable brand with well known industry professionals. 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 'QUICK APPLY' now.
Apply now -
Wellington
Commercial Litigation Lawyer | 2+ years PQE
The OpportunityExciting opportunity for an experienced litigator to join a forward-thinking specialist Litigation team within a full service practice and be involved in an interesting mix of dispute resolution matters. There is a genuine work/life balance in this role where you can do quality work, but also retain having a life outside of work. The firm invests in modern technology and systems to help their lawyers operate efficiently.Our client is looking to hire a talented senior litigation lawyer with 2+ years' solid litigation experience dealing with either commercial and contractual disputes, regulatory investigations, ADR / mediations, insolvency and property disputes, defamation, fair trading and public law disputes.You will be someone who enjoys variety in a role and being immersed from start to finish on complex litigation files before the High Court, at arbitration and mediation stage. The partners you work for will allow you to take on a good degree of file management responsibility for smaller files and provide support on more complex, larger-scale, litigated matters. About you: 2-7 years' PQE in litigation (with some civil and commercial litigation experience) Strong communication and interpersonal skills with an ability to cut through issues and problem solve; Experience gained in a reputable firm or in-house legal team where you've been able to develop hands on litigation experience; and A good academic record (B average or higher). Perhaps you're thinking about a move back from overseas or you're keen to make a move into a leading litigation team where you can truly hone your skills with the best. Either way, get in touch to find out more. For further information, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or at anand@colegal.co.nz or apply by sending your CV and academic record by clicking APPLY now.
Apply now -
Auckland
Commercial Property & Projects Lawyer | Senior Associate / Special Counsel
About the opportunityAs a senior member of the team, you'll be a part of a specialist property law team where you can thrive and operate on matters and with clients with a high degree of autonomy. Based in the CBD, you'll be part of a collegial team involved in a range of work, including: Commercial Property acquisitions and disposals for industrial, retail and office buildings Property development matters acting for developer clients Commercial lease drafting and negotiations for both significant landlord and tenant clients, and resolving issues Property financing / refinancing Unit titling and design-build agreements Overseas investment Broader commercial experience would be valued with exposure to company structuring matters, business transactions and the like The firm promotes a genuine work and life balance, so long hours and overtime aren't expected. There is room for partnership progression if that's of interest and realistic expectations around it, otherwise you could be someone that operates at a senior level with the ability to work with flexibility and autonomy and have juniors support you in the role. The ideal candidate will have: 10+ years PQE with solid commercial property experience, gained in reputable firms (and/or with in-house legal experience) Ability to mentor juniors Strong client management and interpersonal skills The ability to work with a high degree of autonomy This is an opportunity to join a highly regarded mid-tier practice that has a longstanding and loyal clientele. Get in touch to find out more. For a confidential chat, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or by sending your CV and academic transcript to anand@colegal.co.nz or by clicking on 'APPLY' now.
Apply now
Can't find what you're looking for?
