Charting the Future of Private Law in Aotearoa New Zealand and Beyond

This book is the result of a symposium held at the University of Otago in 2025 and offers a forward-looking exploration of the development of private law in New Zealand, Australia, and the broader Asia-Pacific region. It covers core private law topics, including property law, contract, torts, equity, and trusts, while also addressing emerging issues such as legal pluralism, the impact of technology on private law, and the distinction between private and public law. New Zealand private law scholarship has been under-represented, and this collection fills that gap by bringing together leading international scholars and early career voices. The book highlights the vibrancy of private law scholarship and fosters collaboration among scholars in New Zealand and beyond, strengthening connections within the global private law community. The book reflects on how private law in New Zealand and elsewhere adapts to future challenges, such as technological advancements and societal changes like the increasing recognition of legal pluralism, including the growing influence of Tikanga within New Zealand’s legal system. With contributions that are relevant to the wider common law world, this book underscores the international significance of New Zealand’s private law approach.The book also strengthens links between academia and the judiciary, with a keynote address from The Honourable Sir Stephen Kós KNZM of the New Zealand Supreme Court.