Aspiring Law Business Spotlight Zoe from Aspiring Law on What Local Businesses Need to Know About Leases

This week on our Aspiring Law Business Spotlight, we were joined by Zoe from Aspiring Law, who dropped some seriously helpful advice for anyone running a business in Wānaka or around Central Otago.

Leases can look simple on paper, but as Zoe explained, there’s often a stack of details hiding in the fine print. Miss a clause, and it can cost you time, money, or flexibility down the track.

What Zoe Wants Local Businesses to Watch Out For

Outgoings
It’s not just rent. Make sure you know exactly what extra costs you’re responsible for. Things like insurance, rates, and maintenance can sneak up if you haven’t checked the breakdown.

Renewal Rights
Some leases don’t automatically roll over. Zoe says businesses should double-check how renewal options work, when deadlines fall, and what happens if you miss one.

Fit-out Rules
Before you start building that dream café counter or retail layout, look for any conditions around alterations. Some leases require landlord approval for even small changes.

Maintenance Responsibilities
Who’s fixing what? From air con to plumbing, be clear on which repairs are on you and which sit with the landlord.

Hidden Clauses
Zoe highlighted things like market rent reviews, demolition clauses, and relocation clauses. These can change your situation quickly if you’re not aware of them.

Why This Matters for Local Businesses

Wānaka’s commercial market is tight. Getting a lease wrong can put unnecessary pressure on a new business or limit growth later. Zoe’s advice was all about helping local owners feel confident and protected before they sign anything.

If you’re about to take on a lease, renegotiate one, or you’re just not sure what’s lurking in the fine print, it’s worth having someone who knows the local landscape take a look.

Catch the Full Chat

Zoe shared plenty more practical, easy-to-understand advice in our full on-air kōrero. If you missed it, scroll up and have a listen.

Want to Get in Touch With Zoe?

If you’re looking at a new lease, renewing an existing one, or just want peace of mind before you sign anything, Zoe’s the person you want in your corner.

Zoe Summerville
Senior Associate, Aspiring Law
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +64 3 443 0900

Expertise:
Residential property
Commercial property
Business and commercial law
Employment and HR

Zoe moved from Auckland to Wānaka in 2023 and hasn’t looked back. She brings extensive experience across property, business, and employment law, and loves helping local businesses get things right from the get-go. When she’s not in the office, she’s chasing after her young sons, enjoying lake days, or cooking up her famous chicken and bacon carbonara.