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Legal expertise for life's important moments.
Buying your first home. Protecting your family's future. Growing your business. Whatever brings you here, we're ready to help.
Four pillars of expertise.
From your first property purchase to protecting your legacy, from launching a business to resolving disputes, our team provides comprehensive legal guidance at every stage.
Property Law
Residential, commercial, and rural property. From first homes to farm succession, we guide property transactions across Hawke's Bay.
- Residential Conveyancing
- Commercial Property
- Rural & Farm Sales
Business & Commercial
Supporting Hawke's Bay business. From structuring and contracts to mergers, IP, and dispute resolution.
- Business Structuring
- Commercial Contracts
- Mergers & Acquisitions
Trusts, Wills & Estates
Protecting what matters. Wills, trusts, enduring powers of attorney, and estate administration for peace of mind.
- Wills & Estate Planning
- Family Trusts
- Estate Administration
Relationship Property
Protecting your assets and interests when entering or leaving a relationship. Contracting out agreements and relationship property advice.
- Contracting Out Agreements
- Relationship Property Division
- Property Settlements
Specialist Services
Hawke's Bay's most established law firm.
In 1874, when Napier was a bustling port town rebuilding after earthquake and fire, Carlile Dowling opened its doors. We have been here through every chapter of Hawke's Bay's story since.
Today, we blend that deep-rooted understanding of our region with modern legal expertise. Our lawyers live here, raise their families here, and understand the unique character of doing business and building lives in Hawke's Bay.
"We have been part of this community for 151 years. We understand local property markets, regional business conditions, and the families who have built their lives here across generations."
The Carlile Dowling TeamFounded in Napier
Established to serve the growing Hawke's Bay community
Survived the Earthquake
Helped rebuild Napier's legal framework after devastation
150 Years of Service
Celebrating our sesquicentennial milestone
Modern & Connected
Full-service law firm with deep local expertise
Not sure where to start?
Many legal matters overlap. A property purchase might involve trust considerations. A business sale might affect your estate plan. We help you see the full picture.
One Firm, Full Service
Rather than coordinating between multiple specialists, work with a team that understands how your legal needs connect. Your property lawyer talks to your trust lawyer because they work down the hall.
Hawke's Bay Knowledge
Since 1874, we have been part of this community. We understand local property markets, regional business conditions, and the families who have built their lives here across generations.
Start with a Conversation
Not every enquiry becomes a matter, and that is fine. If you are unsure what you need, contact us. We will point you in the right direction, even if that direction is not us.
Meet your
legal team
Our team brings expertise across all practice areas. Local lawyers who understand Hawke's Bay.
What Our Clients Say
"Prompt, friendly & efficient service"
"I have always received excellent service from Carlile Dowling."
"A pleasure to work with."
To ensure candour, all feedback was collected anonymously.
Ready to discuss your needs? We're here to help.