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
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Auckland
Immigration Lawyer or Licensed Advisor | 3+ years
About the firm & opportunity We are working with a well established immigration specialist practice in Auckland that is recruiting for an additional lawyer or licensed immigration advisor for its team due to growth. You'd work with experienced seniors across a broad range of immigration matters including visa applications as well as those involving complexities such as character and health issues, investor plus visas, s61 ministerial appeals, deportations, overstays, PPI or appeals. About you: 3+ years as a NZ qualified immigration lawyer or as a licensed immigration advisory; some experience with complex immigration matters and those that are challenged; good interpersonal and relationship building skills; and Mandarin speaking skills would be preferred but not essential. Senior candidates (e.g. ones with a transferrable client base) are welcomed to apply as well, and benefits could be considered based on each one's merit. Once you have settled into the role, more WFH and flexibility could be discussed. Bonuses are possible for high performers too. To discuss further, contact Bob Kou 027 274 5926, or email your CV and academic transcript to bob@colegal.co.nz or by clicking 'APPLY' now.
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Auckland
Junior Criminal Lawyer | 3+ Months' Experience
The Firm & Opportunity Join a well established practice with a diverse clientele and team of highly skilled lawyers. They are now looking for a Junior Criminal Lawyer with relevant experience gained in advocacy and legal aid 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 might also be able to take on some family law work if it's of interest to you.About you: At least 3-6 months of existing experience in criminal law gained with a law firm, a criminal defence organisation or Barrister; Ideally you will be admitted in the near future and have some familiarity with court processes with the capability to operate at a supervised provider level for Legal Aid purposes; An ability to build rapport with clients and cut through legal issues; and Good communication and problem-solving skills. You may be currently working with a criminal law barrister or have gained some criminal law experience within an organisation and be keen to diversify your range of work in a team based environment at a law practice, 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.
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Christchurch
Property Lawyer
Our client is a well‑established, medium‑sized Christchurch law firm with a strong focus on property and business law. They are seeking a Property Lawyer with around 3 years’ PQE to join their property team. The Role You will work on a varied mix of residential and commercial property matters, managing your own files with appropriate supervision and collaborating closely with experienced senior lawyers. This role offers genuine client contact, quality workflow, and the opportunity to continue developing depth in property law. Key Responsibilities Managing residential property transactions from instruction through to settlement, including sales, purchases and refinances Drafting and reviewing sale and purchase agreements and related conveyancing documentation Advising on due diligence matters, including LIMs, titles and property reports Assisting with commercial property matters such as leases, acquisitions and disposals Supporting property development and subdivision work as appropriate to experience Liaising directly with clients, agents, lenders and consultants Working collaboratively with colleagues Delivering clear, practical advice aligned with client objectives About You Admitted solicitor with a current New Zealand practising certificate Approximately 2–4 years’ PQE in property and conveyancing law Strong grounding in New Zealand residential conveyancing processes Confident managing files with appropriate supervision Client‑focused, pragmatic and commercially aware A collaborative team player with strong communication skills Well organised and comfortable managing competing priorities Perks & Benefits Health & wellness allowance Active social club and regular firm events Ability to work from home when needed Supportive culture with accessible senior lawyers and genuine development opportunities For a confidential chat about this role, please contact Liz Sloan at CoLegal Recruitment – liz@colegal.co.nz or 027 211 6718. Looking for something different? We recruit for legal roles across New Zealand so if you’re looking for a change, let’s have a chat about the market. View our full list of legal roles here: www.colegal.co.nz/jobs
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Auckland
Corporate Lawyer | 2-4 years PQE
Our client has a growing Corporate team and has a position for a junior-intermediate level lawyer in its Auckland city based team. You'll work in a team led by a few corporate partners and a mix of lawyers at different levels in the team, doing top quality M&A work, advising on joint venture arrangements, management buy-out arrangements, corporate structuring and providing strategic advice to growing businesses (e.g. capital raising, seed funding) as well as some general commercial work. There will be varied work with NZX listed companies, multi-nationals to start up clients going through expansion.This is an opportunity to join a team that has embraced a modern way of working, operating flexibly and without red tape and bueracracy. If you're looking for greater client contact or end to end exposure on files, so that you're involved in substantive legal work, then this would be an opportunity worth considering. You will be someone that has: 2-4 years experience in a well-regarded corporate/commercial law team (recent private practice experience). Some commercial legal experience is needed for this role; Good academics - at least a B average in your LLB; and Passionate about further developing a career in the corporate/commercial law field and learning from experts. Perhaps you have a base in corporate and commercial law and would like to step that experience up with more complex / larger scale matters? or maybe you want access to better mentorship and training? Either way, get in contact with us to find out more about this position.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.
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Christchurch
Senior Employment Lawyer
The Role An opportunity has come up for an experienced Employment Lawyer to join a well-regarded employment team working with a broad range of employer clients across New Zealand and internationally. You will work closely with Directors and senior lawyers on high-quality, practical employment law matters, including: Advising employers on day-to-day employment queries Managing employment disputes and grievances Holidays Act and parental leave advice Health & Safety issues Drafting and reviewing employment agreements and workplace policies Advising a diverse client base including national brands, SMEs, not-for-profits, councils, and privately owned businesses About You We are looking for someone with 3+ years PQE who is confident advising clients independently and who takes a commercial and pragmatic approach to their work. This is a solutions-focused role suited to someone who enjoys providing clear, common-sense advice and delivering great outcomes for their clients. Benefits:This firm is known for being genuinely flexible while still delivering excellent client outcomes. They offer: Flexible working hours and occasional work-from-home options Realistic billable hours which allow good work / life balance Close access to Directors and mentoring A great spot close to shops and cafes in the CBD Supportive, down-to-earth team This is a permanent opportunity and we are open to seeing candidates with both full time and part-time availability. For a confidential chat about this role, please contact Liz Sloan at CoLegal Recruitment – liz@colegal.co.nz or 027 211 6718. Looking for something different? We recruit for legal roles across New Zealand so if you’re looking for a change, let’s have a chat about the market. View our full list of legal roles here: www.colegal.co.nz/jobs
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Auckland
Technology & Commercial Solicitor
Our client is a leading full-service law firm that has a technology law team going from strength to strength and due to a steady increase in the flow of work, they are looking to hire an intermediate level Solicitor to join them.In this role, you will get hands-on exposure with software development and maintenance agreements, privacy and cyber security matters, consumer law, procurement, licensing agreements, IP and e-commerce related matters as well as some exposure to corporate transactional work. The team consists of a Partner who is at the forefront of emerging technology areas, two Senior Associates and a mix of intermediate and junior lawyers - they work collaboratively and enjoy this area of work. If you are looking to learn from the best while honing your commercial drafting skills in an exciting area of law, then this is a terrific opportunity to consider. To succeed in this role, you will have: 3-5 years PQE with some exposure to commercial law. You could be working in-house and keen to develop your technical skills in a commercial/technology role with mentorship, or you may be working in a broader corporate & commercial team and are keen to specialise in tech-related contracts and transactions; A B average or higher in your university grades; Good drafting skills; and A demonstrable interest in IT law. There is the ability to work a day a week from home in this role, as the firm embraces flexibility and you'll be working in modern offices. The culture encourages ongoing learning and development, and the team operates as an extension of the in-house legal team of clients they work with. You'll have the opportunity to get involved in some interesting project-based work and build your technical legal skills in a growing practice area of the law. For further information, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or email your CV and academic record to anand@colegal.co.nz or by clicking 'APPLY' now.All enquiries will be treated with the strictest of confidence.
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Christchurch
Senior Legal Executive - Property
The Company Specialising in property and personal law, this firm is well known in Nelson for delivering high-quality, practical legal services and excellent value to its clients. With a strong reputation in residential and commercial conveyancing, the firm offers a supportive and professional environment where experienced Legal Executives are trusted, valued, and empowered. Located in a beautiful part of the country, this role offers the chance to enjoy the Nelson lifestyle while continuing to develop your career in a senior, hands-on position. The Role We are seeking an experienced Senior Registered Legal Executive with a strong background in property and conveyancing to step into a busy and well-established practice. This is a senior, autonomous role suited to someone who enjoys managing their own files, building long-term client relationships, and playing a leadership role within the wider team. You will take responsibility for a significant client base and contribute to the smooth operation and growth of the property team. Key Responsibilities Managing residential and commercial conveyancing files from instruction through to settlement Handling refinancing transactions and business/property-related matters Retirement village and Occupation Right Agreement (ORA) work Drafting, reviewing, and finalising conveyancing and property documentation Conducting due diligence and providing practical, client-focused advice Liaising directly with clients, real estate agents, banks, and other professionals Delegating work and mentoring and supporting the development of less experienced team members About You You will be a Registered Legal Executive with substantial experience in property and conveyancing, ideally at a senior level, who enjoys responsibility and working with a high degree of independence. You’ll bring: Extensive experience managing end-to-end property transactions Strong organisational skills and excellent attention to detail Confidence using legal technology and managing workflows efficiently The ability to build trust and rapport with clients and referrers A collaborative approach and the confidence to supervise and mentor others The ability to manage high-volume workflows while maintaining quality and accuracy Integrity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to client service The Benefits Professional, down-to-earth culture with a strong team focus Flexible working hours and working-from-home capability A busy desk ready for you to step into immediately Clear seniority and long-term career stability Laptop, phone, and car park provided Regular social events and wellbeing initiatives For a confidential chat about this role, please contact Liz Sloan at CoLegal Recruitment – liz@colegal.co.nz or 027 211 6718. Looking for something different? We recruit for legal roles across New Zealand. Let’s have a chat about the market. View our full list of current roles here: www.colegal.co.nz/jobs
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Auckland
Senior General Practice Lawyer | Partnership path
About Dyson SmytheDyson Smythe is a highly regarded firm in the Warkworth region, that was established over 50 years ago, and has a loyal and long standing multi-generational clientele. With strong ties to the local community and across the Auckland region, the firm acts for clients that range from mum and dad clients, high net worth individuals, local businesses, investors and property developers. The team pride themselves on taking a client focused approach to their work providing a quality service in delivering legal advice.About the Role Due to succession planning, the firm is looking to hire a senior lawyer to its team. This is a role that offers variety and would be a blend of commercial, property and private client work which could be tailored towards someone's area of expertise and interests (if you have experience in some but not all the areas). Work could include residential and commercial property transactions, commercial leasing arrangements, subdivisions, trusts, wills, estates and asset planning, relationship property, business transactions, shareholder agreements, financing arrangements and company structuring matters. If you've been thinking about a move to the Warkworth or Rodney region for lifestyle reasons then this is a unique opportunity to set up roots with a local firm where there's a pathway for your own growth and development. Likewise, if you're already based near the region, then this is a chance to cut down your commute times and join a firm with a strong local reputation.This is an opportunity to grow with a firm for the long term, where there is a genuine partnership pathway where you're not expected to introduce clients. About You 5+ years’ PQE, New Zealand qualified, with private practice experience A solid background in property, commercial and/or private client transactional and advisory work (those with less experience may be considered too). Confident managing files independently and with autonomy - partnership support will be provided where needed. A natural communicator, commercially minded with strong interpersonal skills. Motivated to maintain and cultivate strong client relationships Why Dyson Smythe? Dyson Smythe is known for its collaborative culture, high standard of client service, and commitment to its people. This is a rare opportunity to join a respected firm where partnership is not just discussed, but actively planned for.For further information, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or email anand@colegal.co.nz with your CV and academic record or click APPLY now. CoLegal is exclusively managing the recruitment for this position.
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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 Experience in CoCA, OT, and FV is a must Experience with PRA, FLAS and dealing with Legal Aid desirable, but not a necessity 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.
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Auckland
Commercial Litigation Lawyer | Senior
The Opportunity:Exciting opportunity for an experienced litigator to join a forward-thinking firm and be involved in an interesting mix of commercial litigation matters. They are now looking to take on an experienced litigator with at least 6 years experience, to work on disputes that can range from insolvency/restructuring matters, professional negligence and indemnity claims, shareholder disputes, contractual disputes, breach of director duties, competition law and regulatory investigations. You will be someone who enjoys variety in a role and being immersed from start to finish on complex litigation files. Working with a couple of highly regarded partners, that will allow you to take on a good degree of file management responsibility but also provide you with adequate support and mentorship as well, there is the chance to get involved in High Court trials and develop your oral advocacy skills. Top remuneration and benefits are on offer. About you: 6+ years' PQE in litigation, with some commercial litigation experience; An ability to cut through issues and problem solve; A strong academic record; and Experience gained in a reputable firm - preferably medium, large or boutique litigation firm. Perhaps you're considering a move back to NZ for 2026? or looking for more interesting and complex work in a full service practice? Get in touch to find out more. For further information, contact Anand Ranchhod on 027 2746 186 or email a copy of your CV and academic transcript to anand@colegal.co.nz or by clicking 'APPLY NOW'.
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Auckland
Law Graduate or Junior Lawyer | 2 x opportunities
The opportunity:We have two opportunities for a recent law graduate who has completed their Profs or a junior lawyer:1) A 3 month fixed term contract dispute resolution / litigation role with a Central Auckland based practice where you'll be exposed to property disputes, construction disputes, civil litigation, insolvency, debt recovery, trusts and estate claims, business disputes amongst others. You must be available for an immediate start for this role. 2) A commercial law focused junior lawyer opportunity that is permanent where you'll be working in a general practice firm doing a mix of business transactions, company structuring work, commercial leasing, property developments / subdivisions, asset protection work, business financing, shareholder agreements and the like. Good working hours and the ability to learn directly from expert partners. You will be someone that has: Completed your LLB already, with a B average or higher in your LLB. Completed your Professional Legal Studies and ideally already admitted to the bar; Keen to learn with a genuine interest in the law; and Passionate about further developing a career in commercial law or dispute resolution. Note: those that have yet to complete their LLB will not be suitable for this role. You must be a NZ citizen to apply.To apply, email your CV and university academic record to anand@colegal.co.nz or by clicking 'APPLY' now. A covering letter is not required but you can provide one if you'd like.
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