This paper starts with an introduction to the Treaty of Waitangi and its significance to New Zealand's constitution and way of life. We then discuss what law is, and in particular the doctrine of separation of powers. This will be followed by time spent on discovering the sources of New Zealand law - how it is made, and what that means for us. Next, because all business relationships are founded in contract, we will spend some time perusing the law of contracts, followed by a look at two specialist contractual areas - consumer law and employment law. Both these areas of law will be of interest on a personal level as well as being fundamental legal obligations for businesses. The law of tort is then covered, because contract law may not provide suitable or sufficient remedies for negligence, the main concept in tort law. We must also look at privacy law, because protection of a business's data is a key area of governance and property law because many businesses own the land and buildings they operate from, others lease premises so an understanding of rental law is very important. Last, but definitely not least, is the area of law known as intellectual property. IP can make up 70-90% of the market value of a business, making knowledge of this area vital.

We will be using the text book Business Law in New Zealand: An Introduction by Jeremy Hubbard and Nicolas Smith. Tutorial questions will come from the relevant chapters of the text, so it is essential that students obtain a copy of the book. The textbook also has review questions at the end of every chapter. Students are advised to complete the relevant questions on a regular basis because these questions may be important during the semester for assessments.