Cavell Leitch

Rural & Agribusiness Legal Services

Our team of rural law experts provides specialised legal support tailored to New Zealand’s agricultural and rural sectors.

Contact the team

Our areas of expertise

With practical knowledge and specialised expertise, Cavell Leitch is recognised as a leading advisor to New Zealand’s rural sector. The backbone of our economy, this sector faces unique legal challenges—from agribusiness and family farms to corporate operations.

Our team, many with rural backgrounds, understands these complexities firsthand, working with clients across dairying, sheep and beef, cropping, forestry, wineries, and high-country tenure reviews to help them make informed, confident decisions.

Agribusiness Legal Support

Agribusinesses are essential to New Zealand’s economy, and navigating their legal requirements demands specialised knowledge.


Our team advises on structuring ownership, drafting comprehensive contracts, and establishing governance frameworks that align with your business goals. We assist with everything from joint ventures and partnerships to regulatory compliance, helping your agribusiness thrive sustainably.

Farm Succession Planning

Planning for the future of your farm is essential for long-term family and business stability.


We know every rural property is unique, so we tailor our legal strategies to protect your investment or grow your assets. With expertise across all aspects of rural property law, we deliver practical, comprehensive support, giving you the confidence to make informed, strategic decisions.

Rural Resource Management

Rural property development requires navigating strict compliance regulations. Our resource management team assists with land use consents, water permits, and subdivision applications, ensuring that your land remains compliant. We stay informed of policy changes to help you manage environmental impacts and avoid enforcement issues. Visit our Resource Management page for more details.

Rural Employment & Immigration Assistance

Rural employment comes with unique challenges, including seasonal workforce needs, health and safety standards, and immigration compliance for overseas hires. Our team drafts clear employment agreements, designs workplace policies, and advises on immigration processes, ensuring you maintain a compliant and productive workforce. For more information, see our Employment Law and Immigration Services pages.

From property transactions to farm succession, we are here to help.

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