This week, all lawyers, suppliers and contractors, volunteers, associate members and others will receive an email that communicates advance notice of proposed changes to entry to New Zealand Law Society | Te Kāhui Ture o Aotearoa premises, and contracted event venues.

The proposed changes of entry reflect the Law Society’s aim to provide a safe environment for anyone who enters or wishes to enter these places. 

It is expected that by the end of November 2021, the Law Society will be shifting to a new COVID-19 Response policy for all its premises and contracted venues. The full policy is not yet in operation. A consultation is being undertaken with staff. It will be finalised around 29 November 2021. 

The full policy will require all visitors to Law Society premises or contracted events venues to declare their vaccination status before entry. 

Meetings, events, dinners, and supplier interactions will be affected, including NZLS CLE events. 

It is proposed that visitors will not be able to attend meetings, events and dinners in person, if they are unvaccinated. 

Notwithstanding this, in the proposed policy, the Law Society acknowledges that some unvaccinated people may need to meet with staff or lawyers on occasion. The policy will clarify how and where this can happen safely (e.g. on special appointment, or remotely). 

The prime consideration in making these proposed changes is staff and visitor wellbeing and safety. 

The policy, once finalised, will answer most questions, so we ask for your understanding as we finalise it.