New Zealand’s unemployment rate rose to 5.2 percent in the June 2025 quarter, according to figures released this week. As the economy takes longer to recover from the recession, costs increase and profit margins tighten, more businesses are facing solvency issues - and it is likely the unemployment figures will be higher in the next quarter. Statistics for 2024 revealed the highest number of formal insolvency appointments for the past 10 years. As of 30 June 2025, that annual figure is on track for another increase.

The Supreme Court’s long awaited decision in Yan v Mainzeal Property and Construction Ltd (In Liq) offers some much needed clarity on directors’ duties in New Zealand. Our initial summary of the decision and its implications is here. This article provides a more detailed review of the state of directors’ obligations post-Mainzeal.

The long awaited Supreme Court decision on the Mainzeal appeal is out, addressing issues of “fundamental importance to the business community”. The judgment essentially upheld the factual findings of the lower Courts that the Mainzeal directors had breached directors’ duties under the Companies Act 1993, and it provides important clarity of the legal principles - and practical steps - that are relevant to directors of companies facing financial difficulties.

Important learnings

Snapshot