Home Loan Changes: Skip the ‘Avo on Toast’ If You Want a House!
Following the implementation of new responsible lending rules in December, the news has been full of stories about the ways that our updated Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act (CCCFA) has impacted ordinary people.
Whether they are spending $187 on Christmas presents at Kmart, too much on a gym membership, or visiting their parents too often, mortgage applicants are being declined from all directions as banks struggle to abide by these new rules. Instead of protecting them from predatory lending, they’re restricting their access to necessary, even urgent, loans.
Buying, Selling & Renting Properties under Red Traffic Light rules
On January 23, 2022, the government announced a nationwide move to the ‘Red’ COVID-19 Traffic Light System.
Open homes and private property viewings can continue under the new system, however there are additional requirements to abide by.
Introducing the New 2021 Residency Visa
Are you a migrant seeking residency in NZ? If yes, then we have some great news for you! You might be eligible for the new 2021 Residency Visa.
Hurry, because this visa is only available until 21st July 2022
Children, Shared Custody and the Covid Vaccine
On 1 December 2021 the Covid-19 Response Minister, Chris Hipkins, announced that Covid-19 vaccinations for children aged 5 to 11 years are expected to start before the end of January 2022. The dose to be provided will be lower than that provided to adults. The Pfizer vaccine is already being administered to children of this age in America. This will become increasingly important as the Delta variant has shown that zyoung people, particularly those who are unvaccinated, are more susceptible to contracting it and requiring hospitalisation.
The Future of Adoption Law in New Zealand
The Government is in the midst of a review of current adoption laws signaling potential change on the horizon for adoption in New Zealand.
The review stems from criticisms that the law as it stands, (largely unchanged since the Adoption Act 1955 was enacted 66 years ago), is increasingly unfit for purpose because it fails to accurately reflect modern societal values and adoption practices. The Government’s intent is to modernise the existing legislation to reflect contemporary expectations, values, and adoption practices and ensure consistency with principles of other child-centred legislation.
