Neighbour disputes

Explore online self-help and educational resources below.

For information on free one-to-one assistance: see here

For information on finding a lawyer: see here

For legal aid: see here

Online legal information (self-help/educational)

  • Community Law Manual Online

    The Community Law Manual Online is a free online resource of easy-to-read legal information and comprehensive answers to common legal questions. The manual aims to provide guidance for the next steps one might take when dealing with a legal problem.

    Email: see preferred location for contact information

    Web link: communitylaw.org.nz/

    Community Law logo
  • Citizens Advice Bureau Information

    The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) provides a free, online information hub designed to help people navigate everyday issues, particularly around understanding their rights and responsibilities across a range of areas. It features over 2,700 searchable questions and answers, developed from real-life inquiries received by CAB offices.

    Phone: 0800 367 222

    Email: see local CAB for email information

    Web link: www.cab.org.nz/

    Citizens Advice Bureau logo
  • Consumer NZ: Neighbours

    Consumer NZ is a non-profit organisation. The website includes guidance on resolving common neighbour-related issues such as fencing agreements, excessive noise, and tree-related concerns. It outlines relevant rights and responsibilities, and provides practical steps like how to serve a fencing notice or take action over unreasonable noise. It also offers advice on resolving disputes informally or through legal processes.

    Phone: 0800 266 786 (0800 Consumer)

    Email: info@consumer.org.nz

    Web links:

    Fencing

    Noise

    Trees

    Consumer NZ logo
  • New Zealand Law Society: Disputes between neighbours

    The New Zealand Law Society offers information on common disputes between neighbours. Topics include fences, nuisance and trespass, noise, use of land or buildings, easements and rights of way. The website outlines legal remedies available and suggests ways to resolve issues.

    Web link: www.lawsociety.org.nz/

    New Zealand Law Society logo
  • The New Zealand Government: Neighbourhood problems

    A government provided resource that offers legal information on common neighbourhood issues, including noise complaints, overhanging trees, animals, fences, and shared property boundaries. It outlines practical steps for resolving issues, such as negotiating costs, trimming branches, and contacting local councils when needed.

    Web link: www.govt.nz/

    The New Zealand Government logo