Harris Tate’s newest director, Michelle Igasan, is a Kiwi who spent several years practising law in Australia and is now relishing her return to Tauranga.
Michelle has returned to Harris Tate as a director after originally leaving New Zealand in 2023 to relocate to the Gold Coast. It is a decision she says was difficult at the time, but it was necessary to support her teenage son in pursuit of his rugby league dream, one that has him progressing through the Brisbane Broncos’ elite athlete Academy programme.
Working remotely from Australia for Harris Tate last year, Michelle and her family have been drawn back to the firm in Tauranga, this time for good.
“There are three other highly experienced directors here, but more importantly they are really good people who are good at what they do, whom I trust completely and who have been incredibly supportive, so the timing and the fit felt right.”
Michelle notes that one of Harris Tate’s standout qualities is a commitment to becoming a modern legal practice and prioritising work/life balance.
“These are not just words; the team genuinely does care and actively ensures that staff members have good work/life balance, which is really important especially when you work in a high stress profession such as law.”
Meantime, holding a practising certificate in New Zealand and Queensland is an invaluable asset for her practice, particularly given the close ties many of the firm’s clients have to Queensland.
Her knowledge of property, business and commercial law on both sides of the Tasman makes her practice area invaluable for clients who are returning to New Zealand, seeking to purchase a piece of Queensland property or wanting to do business in Australia generally.
Michelle notes that, despite similarities between the two countries, both have very different requirements which can be a minefield to navigate.
The firm’s workflow and client base are also well matched to Michelle’s experience in property, business and commercial law. She is enjoying a return to a more hands-on approach focussed on delivering positive outcomes and practical solutions for her clients.
“As a firm, we have the scale to attract lawyers with specialised expertise to meet our clients’ diverse needs while maintaining the warmth and approachability of a mid-sized practice which connects well with our clients.”
Michelle also has a strong interest in sport law, which aligns well with the needs of sporting organisations and other bodies as they reassess their rules and constitutions in response to recent legislative changes affecting incorporated societies.
“The re-registration period for incorporated societies ends on April 5, 2026, which will come around very quickly. It’s very important for organisations to be talking about changes now to avoid being in the unfortunate position of no longer existing if they haven’t re-registered in time.”
Fellow Harris Tate director, Grant Harris, says he welcomes Michelle’s promotion to director.
“This is a natural step forward and a significant milestone strengthening the firm’s leadership team. We are proud to recognise Michelle’s talent and contribution to Harris Tate’s future.
“Michelle’s promotion reflects not only her exceptional legal and commercial acumen but also her leadership within the firm and the wider community.”
As Michelle and her family settle into their familiar, yet newly rediscovered, city, she is looking forward to taking on more special projects as they evolve with Harris Tate.
“Tauranga certainly has grown since we first moved here in 2017 and it’s even more noticeable on our return earlier this year, Michelle says.
“There are more people now and with that comes a vibrant energy. We feel really fortunate to live in a city that boasts some of the best beaches in New Zealand right on our doorstep along with an abundance of natural beauty in general.
“However, you do notice the slower pace of Tauranga compared to life on the Gold Coast,” Michelle adds. “This is not a bad thing as it allows more time to spend with family, less traffic and (believe it or not!) more sunshine compared to the Gold Coast during the past couple of years.”
To find out more contact Michelle via www.harristate.co.nz.
