Growing up on a dairy farm just outside of Te Awamutu, Renee Dunn was no stranger to rural life. From calf club days to helping out on the farm, it was a big part of her upbringing. When she left for university to study law, she thought she might be leaving it behind, but her partner is a dairy farmer, and she absolutely loves being back to her roots on the farm.
These days, Renee’s rural background is something she values, as many of the clients she works with are farmers, farming families or retired farmers, and she enjoys having that shared understanding of rural life.
“I grew up around farming and I’m still very much part of that world now. I think it gives me an appreciation for the lifestyle and the importance that family, the farm and what you’ve worked hard to build can have for people.”
Now a lawyer in Gallie Miles’ Trusts, Estates & Asset Planning team, Renee says the people she meets are easily her favourite part of the job.
Renee brings an empathetic, practical and down-to-earth approach to her work.
“Legal matters can sometimes feel overwhelming. I like being able to sit down with someone, have a conversation and explain things in a way that makes sense. For me, it’s about listening to what someone actually wants to achieve and helping them find the best way forward.”
And while Renee enjoys working with clients of all ages and backgrounds, she admits she particularly enjoys the stories that come with getting to know people.
“Some of our older clients have the most incredible stories. I love hearing about their lives, their families and how things have changed over the years - you can learn a lot from them.”
Outside of Gallie Miles, Renee is happiest outdoors, whether that’s hunting or fishing, hiking, walking the dogs on the farm, pottering around in her veggie garden, or getting away for the weekend.
And it’s fair to say Renee is in her element when she’s outdoors, as you can see from a few of the photos below!
