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About us
Rewi Schaaf is a law firm specialising in private client services and dedicated in-house legal support through our innovative subscription model. With offices in Auckland and Queenstown, we proudly assist clients across New Zealand.
For private clients, we provide expert legal advice and advocacy in criminal, family, and local government law, ensuring tailored solutions to protect your rights and interests.
For businesses and organisations, we offer flexible in-house legal support through our subscription service, allowing access to experienced legal counsel without the overhead of a full-time hire. From general advisory work to capacity overflow support, we provide practical, cost-effective solutions.
We are committed to delivering high-quality legal representation, clear advice, and strategic results. Our firm is also culturally aware and inclusive, working with Tāke Tuia Cultural Consultancy to ensure a respectful and supportive environment for all clients.
Director
Ko wai au? Ko Vivian-Lee Schaaf (nee Rewi) taku ingoa.
Ko Takitimu te Waka, Ko Takitimu ngā Maunga, He uri tēnei nō Ngāi Tahu me Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa hoki.
I am an experienced lawyer with over 9 years of practice and more than 17 years of experience working in the corporate sector across both large and small businesses throughout New Zealand. I provide expert legal support, litigation advice, and strategic guidance to both businesses and individuals with confidence and precision.
Before practising law, I built a strong foundation in the corporate world, working in private nationwide companies and local government departments across Queenstown, Dunedin, and Auckland. This included acting as a contract advisor for some of the largest roading contracts for Auckland Transport.
As a driven and skilled litigator, my legal career has included 7 years as an in-house lawyer at Auckland Council, specialising in regulatory and enforcement matters, as a prosecutor and as an in-house litigation lawyer with one of New Zealand's largest trustee companies. With substantial court experience, I am highly comfortable advocating for my clients and achieving the best possible outcomes.
I am also deeply proud of my culture and whakapapa, which has shaped my values and my approach to life and work. Family is at the heart of everything I do, and I draw strength from those close to me. Outside of work, I enjoy being active, travelling, and cooking—activities that keep me balanced and grounded.
New Zealand Certificate in Tikanga (Mātauranga Māori) Level 4
New Zealand Certificate in Business (Small Business) Level 4
Excellence Awardee in the 2020 New Zealand Law Awards for Young In-House Lawyer of the Year.
