Section 21 Agreements (2025) (On Demand)

This On Demand was recorded on 27 August 2025.

As modern relationships grow increasingly diverse, section 21 and 21A agreements under the Property (Relationships) Act are playing a central role in how couples approach property division. This focused On Demand will offer valuable insights into the legal and practical complexities of drafting robust contracting out and settlement agreements. Drawing on recent case law and common pitfalls, the session will also examine strategies for future-proofing agreements in an ever-changing relationship landscape.

Learning Outcomes

Gain a better understanding of the fundamental principles of contracting out and settlement agreements
Gain insights into the latest trends and developments for better drafting
Get to grips with the practical issues so you have the tools to clearly explain difficult concepts in this area to your clients
Learn about the case law and recent evolutions
Benefit from hands-on experience and real-time examples
Become better informed about the challenges you face as an expert (or future expert)

Who Should Watch

Anyone who provides or intends to provide advice on the implications of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, or who certifies any agreements entered into under the Act

Presenters

Jennie Hawker, Director, Haigh Lyon Lawyers
Amanda Donovan, Director, Haigh Lyon Lawyers

Amanda Donovan

Amanda has over 25 years of experience, specializing in relationship property and claims against trusts. She is an expert negotiator, mediator, and a member of the Arbitrators’ and Mediators’ Institute of New Zealand Inc (AIMNZ), helping resolve relationship property, care of children matters, and disputed estate matters. She is a Certified Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyer Lawyers and runs a top family law team at Haigh Lyon Lawyers.

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Jennie Hawker

Jennie, a director at Haigh Lyon Lawyers, co-leads the firm’s vibrant and effective family law team. Certified Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers, she’s recognised by Doyle’s Guide as a foremost expert in New Zealand on relationship property and family law. Jennie has 20 years’ experience in family law and is a contributing author to Westlaw’s family property and family procedure chapters.

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Details

CPD Hours: 1.50hr

Pricing Details

Ticket Price

Member: $155 GST
Non-Member: $220 GST

This On Demand includes the video and materials, and will earn CPD.

Click here to access materials only.