We’re dedicated to helping our people, clients and firm thrive.
At AWS Legal, we believe that legal advice is more than just paperwork and technicalities. We believe it’s important to build relationships with our clients and provide services that truly meet their needs.
We understand that the legal process can be overwhelming, and that’s why we aim to keep you informed every step of the way. Our team is committed to delivering on our promises, so you can have confidence in the services we provide.
When you work with us, you’ll be assigned a lead partner who will oversee your case and keep an eye on the big picture. This ensures that all work is completed efficiently and that practical advice is given in your best interests.
Our partners and solicitors all specialise in different areas of law and are always learning and improving. We have offices all over Southland and Central Otago, so you’ll benefit from the expertise and skills of a large firm, as well as our local knowledge and passion.
Whether you need help with buying or selling property, protecting your assets, planning your estate, or dealing with family law issues, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us today and see how we can make a difference for you.
Our Values
Better Together
We are Collegial and operate as a team.
Be Exceptional
We achieve great outcomes. We give only the best service and hire the best talent.
Do it Smarter
We are innovative. We take on challenges and embrace change.
Be Respectful
We show respect for our people, clients and the law. We respect diverse opinions and backgrounds.
Always Authentic
We are professional and down to earth. We tell it straight and are courageous.
Our Story
Our practice has a rich history that started way back in 1890 when Watson & McNab was founded. Some of the notable figures produced by this firm were Robert McNab, who later became Minister of Justice, and Neil Watson, who served as Mayor of Invercargill for nine years. The firm eventually became Watson & Watson.
Fast forward to 1935, Hanan, Arthur & Co was established, and among its partners were some judges and politicians. Ralph Hanan, one of the partners, served as Mayor of Invercargill before becoming Minister of Justice and Attorney General. Other partners included Colin Fraser, who was appointed High Court Judge, Patrick Toomey, who became a District Court Judge, and Mervyn Rodgers, who became Secretary-General of the New Zealand Law Society.
In 1977, Trevor Savage joined Watson & McNab as a partner, and the firm was renamed Watson & Savage. Then in 1984, Watson & Savage and Hanan Arthur & Co merged to form Arthur Watson Savage, the largest legal practice in Southland.
In the early 1990s, we decided to focus more heavily on the southern business sector. Through strategic recruitment and professional development, we honed our knowledge in property development, company law, and corporate structuring.
In the mid-90s, we predicted the rural-driven economic boom and positioned ourselves to support this growing sector.
Today, AWS Legal is one of the top business and private client practices in the South Island with 6 regional offices throughout Southland and Central Otago.
Our Community
Making a Positive Impact in Our Community
At AWS Legal, we love getting involved in our local community. It’s important to us to give back to the places where we live and work. We want to do our bit to make a positive difference, and we believe that supporting our community is the right thing to do. Our firm, and our staff, take part in all sorts of activities to help out, including fundraising, donations, pro bono work, and volunteering.
At AWS Legal, we’re committed to promoting the well-being of our community. We partner with local organisations to support initiatives that promote physical, mental, and emotional health. We believe that a healthy community is a happy community, and we’re dedicated to doing our part to promote all aspects of well-being.
- Cancer Society – Gala Ball Sponsor
- Southland Charity Hospital
- The Grace Street Project
- Central Otago Community Pantry
We partner with local organisations to support business development initiatives and mentorship programs for aspiring entrepreneurs. We also support initiatives that promote innovation and technological advancement in our community. We believe that supporting business and innovation can lead to economic growth and create new opportunities for our community.
We are proud supporters of
At AWS Legal, we believe in the importance of lifelong learning and continuous professional development. We believe that education and training are key to personal and professional growth, and we’re committed to supporting initiatives that provide access to quality education and training for all members of our community.
We are proud supporters of
- Wakatipu High School Foundation
- Invercargill Young Professionals
- Southland Young and New Practitioners
- Dunstan High School Arts & Language Award
- Stephen Whiteland Memorial Scholarship
We believe in the power of sports to bring people together and promote physical and mental well-being. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to participate in sports and benefit from the positive effects that come with it, regardless of their background or ability
We are proud supporters of
- SkyCity Stampede
- Appleby Cricket Club
- Invercargill Netball Centre
- Midlands Rugby Club
Our Offices
Invercargill – Waihōpai
Address: 80 Don Street, Invercargill
Postal: PO Box 1207, Invercargill 9840
Email: admin@awslegal.co.nz
Phone: 032111370
Email: 032144122
Get in touch
Queenstown – Tāhuna
Address: Level 2, The Forge, Athol Street, Queenstown
Postal: PO Box 1322, Queenstown, 9348
Email: Queenstown.Reception@awslegal.co.nz
Phone: 034410616
Email: 032144122
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Alexandra – Areketanara
Address: Level 1, 77 Centennial Avenue, Alexandra, 9320
Postal: PO Box 268 Alexandra 9340
Email: Alexandra.Reception@awslegal.co.nz
Phone: 034400026
Email: 032144122
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Winton
Address: 270 Great North Road, Winton 9720
Postal: PO Box 14 Winton 9741
Email: admin@awslegal.co.nz
Phone: 032367000
Email: 032144122
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Gore – Māruawai
Address: 11 Bowler Avenue, Gore 9710
Email: admin@awslegal.co.nz
Phone: 032111370
Email: 032144122
Get in touch
Te Anau
Address: 29 Luxmore Drive, Te Anau 9600
Email: admin@awslegal.co.nz
Phone: 032111370
Email: 032144122
Get in touch