Guidance Through Separation & Property Matters.
When a relationship ends, dividing property can feel complex and emotional. At Eagles Eagles & Redpath, we provide clear, practical legal advice to help you understand your rights and options so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
We help you achieve fair and lasting outcomes — whether through agreement or, if necessary, the Family Court.
Property Division
Helping you identify, value and fairly divide relationship property.
Contracting Out Agreements
Binding financial agreements to protect your interests now and into the future.
Separation and Settlement Agreements
Negotiated agreements that provide certainty and help you move forward.
Family Home and Asset Matters
Guidance on the family home, investments, KiwiSaver and other assets.
Trusts and Relationship Property Issues
Advice on trust structures and how they may impact property entitlements.
Practical Settlement Advice
Realistic, commercially focused advice to achieve fair and durable outcomes.
Key Contacts.
Our Relationship Property team is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions.
How is relationship property usually divided?
The starting point under the Property (Relationships) Act is an equal sharing of relationship property once a qualifying relationship has lasted three years or more, with separate property generally excluded. In practice the work is in identifying which is which, valuing it, and dealing with anything that has been mixed together, such as an inheritance put into the family home. We go through your situation and explain what is likely to fall on each side.
Does this apply to de facto couples?
Yes. The Act covers marriages, civil unions and de facto relationships, and the same three-year threshold generally applies. Shorter relationships are treated differently, and there are exceptions where a child is involved or one partner has made substantial contributions. It is worth getting advice early rather than assuming the rules do not apply.
What is a contracting out agreement?
Often called a pre-nup, it lets a couple agree how their property will be divided instead of following the Act. Each person must get independent legal advice and the agreement has to be signed and witnessed properly, or it can be set aside. They are commonly used when one partner brings in a house, a business, or an inheritance.
Do we have to go to court?
Usually not. Most relationship property matters are settled by negotiation between lawyers and recorded in a formal agreement, which is faster, cheaper and far less stressful than litigation. Court is there when agreement genuinely cannot be reached, and we will tell you honestly if we think your matter is heading that way.
Clear Advice - No Surprises.
We keep it simple, transparent and personal.
Plain Language
We explain legal terminology in plain, easy to understand language.
Clear Costs
We outline fees and disbursements clearly before you commit.
Prompt Responses
We respond quickly to your questions and keep things moving.
Informed Every Step
We keep you informed every step of the way.
Every Situation Is Unique.
No two separation or property matters are the same. The type and value of assets, the length of the relationship, contributions from both parties, and future needs all play a role. Matters may involve family homes, investments, businesses, KiwiSaver, inheritances or gifts, or trusts. We take the time to understand your situation, explain your options, and guide you toward the best possible outcome.
Whenever possible, we aim to resolve matters through respectful negotiation and agreement. If court is necessary, we’ll advocate strongly for your interests.
We're here to help you move forward.
Whether you require representation, guidance, or simply a conversation about your options, our team is here to help.
03 218 2182
office@eagles-eagles.co.nz
80 Kelvin Street, Invercargill
RSA Building, Bluff
116 Main Centre, Te Anau