This study explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models (LLMs), on junior lawyers' work in New Zealand's legal profession. Existing research on AI in law primarily focuses on its technical capabilities, overlooking the lived experiences of legal professionals navigating this technological shift. To address this gap, this study employs a qualitative approach to investigate the essence of AI integration in legal practice and its psychological and practical effects on junior lawyers and their work. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted with a diverse purposive sample of junior lawyers across New Zealand. Thematic analysis identified two major themes in junior lawyers' lived experience: Transforming Legal Practice and Opportunities and Challenges for Junior Lawyers, as well as an overarching theme of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi), which is woven through all themes, sub-themes, and categories in this research. The findings focus on three key areas: the psychological and practical effects of AI on junior lawyers' work, the alignment between legal education and the emerging AI-driven profession, and the intersection of AI, law, and Māori customs, primarily Te Ao Māori (Māori worldview) and Tikanga (Māori customary law). Findings show that while AI can enhance productivity, it raises concerns about job security, ethical dilemmas, and the shifting of junior lawyers' roles from routine tasks to more complex, analytical, and interpersonal work. This study also identifies a significant disconnect between legal education and the realities of AI-integrated practice and uncovers the risks of AI perpetuating biases, particularly for Māori clients. This research contributes to understanding AI's impact on the legal profession in New Zealand, offering insights for legal educators, law firms, and policymakers. It emphasises the need for targeted training, ethical guidelines, and cultural sensitivity in AI implementation, paving the way for a more prepared and resilient legal workforce in the face of technological change.