Key Benefits | Ngā Painga Matua
Family, Relationship Property, Trust and Estate Mediation Services in the Bay of Plenty
Nau mai, haere mai
When families face conflict, clarity and calm can feel out of reach. At Bay Mediation, we help you move forward — with dignity, fairness, and practical solutions. Founded by experienced family lawyer and mediator Fiona Mackenzie, Bay Mediation offers a safe, structured space to resolve disputes outside of the courtroom.
Family
Property
Trusts
Estates
Why Mediation?
He aha te tukanga whakataunga
Mediation is a preferred alternative to court. It’s private, cost-effective, and solution-focused. With the right guidance, most people can reach a durable agreement that works for everyone — without drawn-out litigation.
Helping Families Move Forward
Fiona specialises in helping people navigate emotionally charged disputes with clarity and care — from separation and co-parenting, to estate conflicts and intergenerational family breakdowns.
Family & Relationship Conflicts
Separation, divorce, co-parenting, blended families — Fiona helps navigate change with fairness and dignity.
Estate Disputes
Sensitive conversations around wills, inheritance, and trusts can strain even the strongest families. Mediation helps preserve relationships and clarify expectations and assists in finding resolution.
Parent & Child Mediation
Supporting communication between parents and tamariki — especially during times of transition. Fiona facilitates inclusive conversations where young people can be safely heard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about how mediation works? We've answered some of the most common ones to help you feel more informed and confident about the process.
Don’t see your question here? Feel free to get in touch — we’re happy to help.
How is mediation different from going to court?
Mediation is a voluntary, good faith process. It’s less formal, private, prompt and more cost-effective than court proceedings. Instead of a judge making a decision for you, you make your own decisions and remain in control of the outcome.
Is mediation legally binding?
Mediated agreements can be made legally binding — Fiona will talk you through this process and what steps to take once agreements are reached.
How long does the process take?
It depends on the complexity of the issues and whether there are transitional steps that are required, but most mediations are resolved within 4 – 8 weeks. The initial consultation will give you a clearer sense of timing.
What is child-inclusive mediation?
Depending on the age of the tamariki, it may be appropriate for them to speak into the process. This is done sensitively, with professional support, and always central to the child’s welfare and best interests.
Meet Fiona Mackenzie
Mō Fiona Mackenzie
Fiona brings more than 40 years of legal expertise to her work as a mediator. As the founding partner of Mackenzie Elvin Law, she has supported countless families through complex legal challenges.
Her transition into mediation is grounded in a belief that most people don’t want the fight and the cost that goes with it — they want to be heard, understood, treated fairly and able to move on.
"Sometimes the best way forward is simply being heard."
FDR-accredited mediator & Voice of the Child Specialist. FDR services fully funded via FairWay. Offering cross-border mediation in the Hague Convention Matters.
