Property and Commercial 

Gresson Dorman & Co – Timaru, South Canterbury 

Stuck in traffic? Paying off a massive mortgage? Still waiting for “your turn” at partnership? 

It’s time to change the narrative. Legal work is the same across the country – but your lifestyle doesn’t have to be. 

At Gresson Dorman & Co, we offer the same high-quality, challenging legal work you’d expect in the big centres – but with something extra: room to grow, room to lead, and room to breathe. Based in Timaru, on the stunning South Canterbury coast, you’ll enjoy a rewarding career without compromising lifestyle.  

We’re looking for an experienced solicitor to join us at Senior Solicitor to Senior Associate level in our Property & Commercial team. 

We’re a progressive, well-established law firm with an eye on the future and an authentic path to partnership. 

And yes, there’s a sign-on bonus and relocation package — because we know the move matters. 

Why Gresson Dorman & Co? 

• 150+ years of South Canterbury legal history 
• Crown Solicitor warrant holder since 1940 
• Talented, supportive, and down-to-earth team culture 
• Modern offices in a lifestyle-friendly coastal city 
• Close working relationships with partners and senior professionals 
• Real opportunities to lead, mentor, and grow a practice 

Whether you’re coming from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch — or just ready for a change — you’ll find something here that city firms can’t offer: a high-calibre career and a lifestyle that works. 

The Role 

Property and Commercial – Senior Solicitor to Senior Associate 

Work with a wide range of urban and rural clients on: 

• Agribusiness – farm transactions & succession 
• Commercial property and leasing 
• Rural and residential conveyancing 
• Business structuring, financing, and commercial contracts 
• Succession planning and trust work 

What We’re Looking For 

• 3+ years' PQE with expertise in your area  
• The ability to manage complex files, supervise others, and drive results 
• Proven leadership, mentoring, and advocacy skills 
• Strong focus on building and maintaining client relationships 
• A desire to make your mark in a firm where your contribution truly matters 
• Ready for partnership? Even better — we’re ready to talk. 

What You’ll Get in Return? 

• Genuine pathway to partnership  
• Competitive salary – matching big-city offers + sign-on bonus 
• Relocation package to help make the move easy 
• Extra Easter leave day 
• Fully funded social club and team events 
• Business tools: laptop, phone, etc. 
• Support for flexible work arrangements 
• 5-minute commute, not 60 minutes! 
• Walk the beach at lunch – Caroline Bay is 5 minutes from your desk

Why Timaru? 

Because here, you’re not choosing between your career and your life — you’re choosing both. 

• Affordable housing, space to breathe, and no traffic jams 
• Stunning Caroline Bay – one of New Zealand’s top beaches at your doorstep 
• Vibrant local culture, great schools, and safe communities 
• Access to ski fields, lakes, hiking trails, and the Alps-to-Ocean lifestyle 
• Spend weekends skiing, hiking, mountain biking, or wine tasting – all close by 
• Everything you want – with more time for what matters. 

Explore more about the region: www.vtdevelopment.co.nz 

Take the Next Step 

If you're ready for career progression that’s genuine, a cost of living that’s achievable, and a community you can truly be part of, we’d love to hear from you. 

This isn’t just a job. It’s a future, built around you. Join a firm where you’re not just another cog in the machine — you’re valued, supported, and given room to thrive. 

Seize the moment. Make the change. 
Have the career and the lifestyle — right here in Timaru. 

Apply now. 

More information is available on the Careers page of our website. Confidential applications or expressions of interest should be directed to our General Manager, Kelley O’Malley. To apply by email, please attach your cover letter and CV and send to kelley@gressons.co.nz.