NZ Law Jobs

The LawFuel job board is buzzing with opportunities that span the spectrum from fresh-faced rookies to seasoned lawyers. Here’s what’s trending in the New Zealand legal job market this March.

Geographic Hotspots

Auckland continues to dominate as the legal employment powerhouse, with numerous positions from firms like Evolution Lawyers, Chapman Tripp, and Bell Gully. But don’t sleep on Wellington, which offers intriguing government and public sector roles with the NZ Defence Force, Office of Ombudsman, and Ministry of Education. 

For those seeking the road less traveled, opportunities in Christchurch, Queenstown, and Dunedin prove there’s legal life beyond the big smoke.

Practice Area Diversity

Corporate & Commercial

Chapman Tripp is hunting for talent in specialized areas like Corporate Energy and Finance, perfect for those who get a rush from high-stakes commercial matters.

Property & Trusts

Evolution Lawyers is seeking a Senior Associate in Property, Trusts, and Estates—ideal if you prefer your legal work with tangible assets and family legacies.

Family Law

For those who thrive in the emotional rollercoaster of family dynamics, Evolution Lawyers offers a position for a Family Lawyer with 2-5 years PQE.

Government & Public Sector

The public sector is recruiting heavily, with roles at the NZ Defence Force, Office of Ombudsman, and Ministry of Education. These positions offer the rare chance to serve the public interest while maintaining work-life balance—the legal equivalent of having your cake and eating it too1.

Construction & Resource Management

Construction and Resource Management positions at Chapman Tripp and Todd & Walker Law suggest that building and development law continues to be a growth area—literally and figuratively.

Criminal Law

For those drawn to the dramatic side of law, a Junior Criminal Barrister position with Shane Tait offers the chance to cut your teeth in courtroom advocacy.

Experience Levels

The market is accommodating at all career stages:

• Junior Positions: Criminal Barrister and Resource Management roles for those with 1-3 years PQE
• Mid-Level Opportunities: Intermediate Construction Solicitor and Family Lawyer positions for those with 2-5 years experience
• Senior Roles: Senior Legal Counsel and Senior Associate positions for the 7+ PQE crowd who’ve survived the legal trenches

Beyond Traditional Practice

Not all legal careers involve billable hours. Bell Gully’s Business Development Advisor position demonstrates that firms value professionals who can bridge the gap between legal expertise and business growth.

Whether you’re fresh out of law school or a battle-hardened veteran, the current market offers diverse pathways to advance your legal career.

The opportunities abound in terms of both location and practice area. Check the LawFuel Law Jobs network.