Franchise legal support for New Zealand businesses

Pitt & Moore & your business

Franchising can be a powerful way to grow a business or step into an established brand. It can also carry significant legal and financial risk if not structured properly.

Whether you are developing a franchise network, buying into a franchise system, or resolving issues within an existing arrangement, careful legal advice at the outset protects your investment and your reputation. 

Pitt & Moore advises franchisors and franchisees across Nelson Tasman and throughout New Zealand, with our franchising work led by lawyers who specialise in this area and supported by an experienced commercial team. Our focus is practical and commercially grounded. We ensure your agreements are clear, enforceable and aligned with your business objectives. 

Speak with our team 

Or, find out more about legal support for franchisors and franchisees below.  

Talk to our team today

For franchisors

Expanding through franchising requires careful structuring, clear documentation and strong risk management. 

A well drafted franchise agreement protects your brand, defines expectations and reduces the likelihood of future disputes.  

We also advise on compliance with the Fair Trading Act and other relevant legislation to ensure your documentation and representations are legally sound. 

We assist franchisors with: 

For franchisees

Buying into a franchise is often a significant personal and financial commitment. 

We review franchise agreements carefully, explain the agreement in plain language and provide clear advice on risk, cost exposure and negotiation opportunities. 

Our aim is to ensure you enter the arrangement with confidence and a full understanding of your commitments. 

Before signing, it is essential to understand: 

Buying or selling a franchise business

Franchise transactions require coordination between franchise documentation and sale and purchase agreements. 

We work closely with accountants, lenders and business advisers to ensure the transaction proceeds smoothly. 

We assist with:

Resolving franchise disputes

Disputes can arise between franchisors and franchisees over performance, compliance, termination or restraint provisions. 

Our approach is strategic and commercially focused. We aim to resolve disputes efficiently while protecting your long term position. 

We advise on: 

Protecting your brand and investment

Franchise relationships rely on clarity, trust and strong documentation.

Clients choose Pitt & Moore because we provide: 

Whether you are building a franchise network or investing in one, early legal advice reduces risk and protects value. 

Speak with our business law team

If you are establishing, purchasing or exiting a franchise, talk with our Nelson Tasman business lawyers for clear, practical advice. 

Contact us today to discuss your business objectives