Savage Law was founded in June 2021 by Tony Savage, with a clear goal to create a law firm that delivers practical legal advice in a way that works for real people.
After years of working in larger firms, Tony saw the need for a more straightforward and accessible approach to legal services in Northland particularly in areas like property, where clients are often navigating the process for the first time.
Savage Law was built on that idea: clear communication, practical advice, and a focus on making the legal process easier to understand.
Today, the firm has grown into a team of seven, supporting clients across Whangārei and the wider Northland region in property, commercial, relationship, and estate planning legal services.
We take a down-to-earth approach to what we do, building strong relationships with our clients and providing advice that is clear, practical, and works in the real world.
We also work on an agreed price basis, so our clients know where they stand from the outset.
Whether you need assistance with property law, commercial law, estates, trusts, or relationship property matters, our approachable and experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.
Before establishing the firm, Tony was a Director at Whangārei firms UMK and WRMK, leading a team specialising in property and commercial law. He earlier sharpened his commercial edge as a solicitor at Chapman Tripp in Auckland and later served as CEO of Lawlink. His hands-on, no-nonsense style helped drive some of Northland's most significant property developments to completion.
Tony’s legal career is accompanied by his deep involvement in the Northland community. He has chaired the Northland Chamber of Commerce, served as Acting Chairman of Law Alliance New Zealand, and held a range of trustee and board roles, including with the Northland Community Foundation and Whangārei Boys' High and Whangarei Intermediate Schools and was twice president of Whangarei South Rotary Club. He also stood for public office as Labour's Whangārei candidate in 2017 and as a Whangārei mayoral candidate in 2019. He also serves as honorary solicitor for a number of charitable and community organisations
Outside of work, Tony enjoys spending his down time flying microlight planes.
Carli is an experienced solicitor with a strong background in property law, commercial transactions, relationship property, asset and succession planning. She advises individuals, families and business owners on a wide range of matters, including residential and commercial conveyancing, business structuring, asset protection and estate planning.
Carli takes a strategic and solutions-focused approach, recognising that legal decisions often carry significant personal and financial implications. She is committed to providing clear, practical advice that enables clients to make informed decisions with confidence and clarity.
With experience in both legal practice and people management, Carli brings a calm, steady, professional presence to complex matters and values building long-term relationships founded on trust, integrity and sound judgment.
Business-minded and people-focused, she is committed to ensuring her clients feel informed, empowered and confident at every stage.
Outside of her legal practice, Carli is a certified Pilates instructor and a proud mum of four young adult children. She values the balance of family, wellbeing and meaningful, aligned work.
Clare is a registered legal executive who has been working in conveyancing and general practice law since leaving school in 2002. Whilst working for a sole practitioner for many of those years, after three years at one of Whangarei’s larger firms, Tony’s ideals of a more personalised serviced fit with Clare’s love of working directly with clients, especially first home buyers.
Clare loves conveyancing, and helping people go through a property purchase or sale in the most stress-free manner. De-mystifying what can often be a daunting and overwhelming area for some clients with her friendly attitude.
In her spare time, you’ll find Clare running around after her two boys and watching their sports (especially rugby!), and enjoying a glass of wine with friends.
Wendy is a registered legal executive who has been working in law firms since 2000 starting her legal career at Urlich McNab Kilpatrick. Wendy has a special interest in Trusts, estate planning and estates and with her compassionate nature takes pleasure in assisting people through these sometimes challenging stages of life.
Outside of the office you can find Wendy joining the park-runners on a Saturday morning, watching her daughters at rowing regattas or playing netball or just enjoying the outdoors with her family.
Sarah joined Savage Law early 2024 after a break from work following maternity leave.
Sarah has worked for two respected local firms since 2001 and has a passion for conveyancing and property matters, which stems from her social nature of simply loving people!
Outside of the office, you will find Sarah chasing her young daughter around the playground, at the Saturday morning farmers market, or in Summer at any one of Northland’s beaches.
Islah is a Registered Legal Executive with a strong focus on residential property matters, including buying, selling, and refinancing. She understands that property decisions are significant milestones and works closely with clients to ensure the process is smooth, clear, and well managed from start to finish.
In addition to property work, Islah is experienced in preparing Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney. She values being able to assist clients across these important areas.
Outside of work, Islah is a proud mum and enjoys spending time outdoors with her partner and family.
Natalie is a Senior Legal Assistant providing support for Tony and the wider team. Before joining Savage Law, Natalie was a Registered Legal Executive working in Commercial and Property Law.
On the weekends Natalie enjoys spending quality time with her family, exploring walking tracks and relaxing with a vino.
