Manaaki Legal is a New Zealand-based law firm, established by Principal Lawyer Hineawe Green. Rooted in the Māori principle of 'manaaki,' which embodies hospitality and care, the firm is dedicated to providing friendly, efficient, and compassionate legal services. Hineawe, of Ngāti Porou descent, brings over two decades of experience in property and estate law, previously practicing in Porirua. Her vision for Manaaki Legal is to leverage her professional expertise to support clients while maintaining a balance with her whānau.
Joining Hineawe is Jenina Snowling, a Property & Conveyancing Professional, also of Ngāti Porou descent. Jenina contributes nearly 20 years of specialised experience in conveyancing and property law, gained from both New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Her passion lies in guiding clients through the complexities of buying, selling, and refinancing properties. Together, Hineawe and Jenina offer a personal and expert approach, ensuring clients feel well-supported in their legal matters across New Zealand.
Manaaki Legal stands as a beacon of friendly and efficient legal services throughout New Zealand, distinguishing itself with an approach deeply rooted in the Māori concept of 'manaaki' – a commitment to hospitality, care, and support. This ethos underpins every interaction and service offered by the firm, ensuring clients receive not just professional legal advice, but also genuine warmth and understanding through what can often be complex and stressful times.
The firm was founded by Hineawe Green, a Principal Lawyer whose heritage and professional journey have shaped the very essence of Manaaki Legal. Hineawe is of Ngāti Porou descent, having been raised in Tikitiki on the East Coast. Her academic path led her to Victoria University, where she graduated from the Faculty of Law in 1997, before being admitted to the bar in 1999. For many years, she honed her expertise in property and estate law at a prominent firm in Porirua. The creation of Manaaki Legal represents Hineawe's heartfelt response to a desire to utilise her extensive professional knowledge to help people more directly, while also fostering a better balance between her professional life and her cherished whānau.
"I am very excited to be able to announce the launch of my new law practice, Manaaki Legal," Hineawe shares. "As a proud Ngati Porou woman, I am privileged to carry my heritage with me. It is reflected in the choice of ‘Manaaki’ as the name of my firm. Manaaki describes the type of hospitality and care that I will look to provide within my practice."
Supporting Hineawe in delivering these invaluable services is Jenina Snowling, a highly experienced Property & Conveyancing Professional. Jenina, also descending from Ngāti Porou, brings almost two decades of specialist knowledge in conveyancing and property law, garnered from her work in both New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Holding a Diploma of Conveyancing and recognised as a Conveyancing Practitioner with the New Zealand Society of Conveyancers, Jenina's passion and commitment are evident in her dedication to assisting clients, whether they are buying, selling, or refinancing property.
Together, Hineawe and Jenina offer a comprehensive suite of legal services designed to look after the things clients care about most. Their expertise in **buying and selling property** is a cornerstone of the practice. They guide clients through the often-intricate legal processes involved in property transactions, including the unique considerations when moving to a retirement village. For first home buyers, Manaaki Legal provides crucial advice on navigating KiwiSaver funds and applying for the Home Start Grant, ensuring a confident start to homeownership.
Beyond property, Manaaki Legal is deeply committed to **estate planning**. They assist clients in **making a will**, a vital document that records decisions and wishes concerning the care of dependents, the distribution of property and assets, and even funeral arrangements. Understanding that this can be a difficult topic, their approach is collaborative, explaining all options with respect for individual choices. They also offer guidance on Advance Directives, or living wills, which articulate wishes about medical treatment.
Another critical service is the **creation of Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPoA)**. The team at Manaaki Legal ensures clients fully understand what an EPoA entails and its significance. An EPoA empowers a nominated person to make decisions about personal care or property if the client is unable to do so, whether due to mental incapacity or temporary unavailability like travel. They meticulously ensure that nominated individuals are properly appointed and fully grasp their responsibilities.
Manaaki Legal prides itself on creating an accessible and supportive client experience. Recognising that traditional work hours don't suit everyone, they offer flexible **after-hours appointments**, allowing clients to receive the advice they need at a time that works best for them. This commitment to convenience underscores their 'manaaki' philosophy, making expert legal assistance available when it truly matters.
Serving clients across New Zealand, Manaaki Legal combines deep professional expertise with a profoundly personal touch. Whether navigating a property transaction, planning for the future with a will, or securing peace of mind through an Enduring Power of Attorney, clients can trust Manaaki Legal to provide clear guidance, efficient service, and the utmost care.