JULIA JOHNSTON

Fuelled by her passion for people and her commitment to finding effective solutions for her clients, Julia founded Johnston Law in 2023.   Renowned as a problem solver, Julia prides herself on delivering optimal outcomes for her clients, no matter the area of concern, while striving to simplify processes and minimise stress. 

 

Julia's extensive career encompasses roles at an international accounting firm, a "big 4" institution, a boutique tax law firm, and most recently as a partner at a mid-tier law firm, where she spearheaded the tax team and a branch office.  Additionally, she has contributed her expertise to a large corporate recovery team at an international firm.  This multifaceted background in law, commerce, and accounting equips Julia with a broad skill base to cater to her clients' needs, whether it involves tax or relationship property matters.  Known for her friendly and supportive demeanour, she focuses on practical solutions and simplifying complex issues, earning trust as a go-to problem solver for individuals, corporates, and advisors alike. 

 

From a tax perspective, Julia assists clients and their advisors with all their tax advisory requirements with her experience spanning a wide array of cases, from assisting with structuring ventures in the property industry, providing advice on the correct tax and GST treatment of various transactions and guiding her clients through Inland Revenue instigated tax investigations, tax audits, risk reviews and settlement negotiations.  

 

Passionate about migrant tax issues, she aids both inbound and outbound residents in navigating their New Zealand tax obligations to optimise tax efficiency across jurisdictions.  As a migrant herself, Julia understands the complexities faced by migrants firsthand, and dedicates considerable effort to providing clear and practical advice and guidance.  This foundation fosters a deep understanding of her clients' circumstances, enabling her to continue advising on various aspects of tax law once they are established in New Zealand, whether commercial or otherwise.

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Julia’s dedication to tax law has been consistently recognised over the years, both nationally and internationally. Her commitment began early, earning her the University of Canterbury’s top student award in Advanced Taxation in 2008 - a foundation that set the tone for her career. Under her leadership, Johnston Law was named Tax Law Firm of the Year – New Zealand at the 2025 APAC Legal Awards and received the 2025 APAC Insider Client Service Excellence Award. Johnston Law was also recognised as Best Migrant Tax Advisors – New Zealand in the 2025 Corporate Vision Corporate Excellence Awards in September 2025.  Julia herself has been honoured as New Zealand Tax Lawyer of the Year for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, and 2024) in the Finance Monthly Taxation Awards. In addition to her advisory work, she regularly speaks at seminars and conferences across New Zealand and internationally, sharing her expertise on various tax matters.

 

Julia's extensive background in tax law not only enhances her understanding of complex financial matters, but also gives her a rare and distinctive ability to apply commercial insight to the intricate realm of relationship property law.  This unique skill set enables her to navigate the nuances of tax and commercial implications and structuring within the context of property division and contractual agreements, offering clients a comprehensive and strategic approach to their relationship property matters.

 

Julia offers empathetic support during what can be emotionally and often distressing times.  She takes a friendly, supportive approach while reaching a practical solution while aiming to simplify and clarify these often-complex matters.

 

Beyond her professional endeavours, Julia actively contributes to her community as a trustee of the Ara Foundation and the Hornby Day Care Trust for the Elderly, as well as serving as treasurer for an equestrian-based Incorporated Society.  Outside of work, you will find Julia out riding/competing with one of her horses, spending time with her husband, family, and friends, or relaxing at home in Canterbury, New Zealand, alongside her beloved dogs and cat.​

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