Rising Stars: Real Estate And Construction

Real estate and construction in New Zealand

AlexanderDorrington Ltd

Based in Auckland, specialist property firm AlexanderDorrington Ltd is noted for its strong capability in residential developments and commercial property matters, including acquisitions and mixed-use developments, as well as leasing and asset planning. Jourdan Griffin acts for high-net-worth individuals, private investors and developers who operate in the Auckland commercial property landscape, and advises on sales and acquisitions leases. Griffin jointly leads the ‘responsive and accessible’ practice alongside Denise Marsden, who has demonstrable experience in residential developments and mandates arising out of the housing sector.

Practice head(s):

Denise Marsden; Jourdan Griffin


Testimonials

‘We value Denise Marsden’s expertise and ability to meet deadlines. She always shows sincere empathy for all parties during negotiations and is very objective. Our accessibility to her is paramount and respected.’

‘Denise Marsden and the whole team are very responsive and accessible.’

‘Jourdan Griffin is very approachable and when working on a complex situation, he always brings in members of the team to troubleshoot.’

Key clients

NZ Living


CORT


Anderson Lloyd

With offices in in Dunedin, Queenstown, Christchurch and Auckland, Anderson Lloyd’s real estate practice acts for clients across the forestry, agriculture and mining sectors on acquisitions and dispositions, as well as commercial and retail leasing matters. Dunedin-based Sharon Knowles leads the team, while Dan Williams, who operates from the firm’s office in Auckland, advises clients on the acquisition of forestry estates, mixed-use developments and retail expansions. Led by Auckland-based Anton Trixl, the ‘experienced, commercial and pragmatic’ construction team has demonstrable experience in large-scale water conservation, water storage and irrigation projects, in addition to renewable energy developments. Simon Munro, who represents clients in construction disputes, is a key member of the Christchurch team.

Practice head(s):

Sharon Knowles; Anton Trixl


Other key lawyers:

Dan Williams; Simon Munro; Mike Kerr; Clare O’Shea


Testimonials

‘The team have shown a very strong capacity to develop a deep understanding of client businesses, and what unique issues need to be addressed. They have been a “one stop shop” for our issues, but have handled the integration of multiple issues and deadlines with seamless flexibility.’

‘They have been totally reliable on complex matters. Most importantly, they have always done this with total professionalism and never a hint of anyone “losing their cool”.’

‘The team appears to work very collaboratively.’

Key clients

Hiringa Energy Limited


Ballance Agri-Nutrients Limited


Mt Cardrona Station Village Limited


Mercury NZ Limited


Waimea Water Limited


Timaru Mega Centre LP


Otago Polytechnic Limited


Ngāi Tahu Property Limited


Christchurch City Council


Timaru District Council


Dunedin City Council


Griffin’s Food Limited


Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited


Port Otago Limited


Manawa Energy Limited (previously Trustpower Limited)


Argosy No.1 Property Limited


New Forests Asset Management Pty Limited


Ports of Auckland Limited


Argosy Property Limited


Foodstuffs (South Island) Properties Limited


Meridian Energy Limited


Manulife Investment Management


NZ Retail Property Group Limited


NZ Hotel Wellington Asset LP & NZ Hotel Wellington Management LP


Dunedin City Council


Silverlight Studios Limited


Silverfin Capital Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Hiringa Energy and Ballance Agri-Nutrients on its joint venture for a major clean-tech project in Taranaki to produce green hydrogen using renewable energy.
  • Advised Waimea Water Limited on the development of the Waimea Community Dam, involving the construction of a dam and reservoir.
  • Advised Mount Cardrona Station Village Limited on its development of Mt Cardrona Station.
  • Advised NZ Hotel Wellington Asset LP & NZ Hotel Wellington Management LP on the NZ$100m acquisition of the Rydges Wellington Hotel.
  • Advised Taieri Forests Limited on the acquisition of Wenita Forest Products Limited.

Anthony Harper

Anthony Harper’s ‘timely, responsive and personable’ real estate team regularly advises on commercial development projects, capital markets transactions involving the acquisition and disposal of office blocks, shopping malls and retail centres, and leasing matters. In the firm’s Christchurch office, practice leader Tim Barclay ‘offers the rare combination of sound legal knowledge, good communication skills and an excellent commercial sense to boot’, when advising clients on a range of commercial property matters. The ‘efficient construction team’ is led by Auckland-based Ed Dunphy, who acts for leading domestic construction companies, principals and contractors, and experience commercial litigator Karen Kemp, who represents clients in construction risk management litigation. In Christchurch, Daniel French focuses on subdivisions, commercial leasing and unit titles, while Auckland-based Tim Bunker is praised as ‘an excellent lawyer who goes the extra distance’. Christchurch-based senior associate Jessica Hanning is another key contact.

Practice head(s):

Ed Dunphy; Karen Kemp; Tim Barclay


Other key lawyers:

Daniel French; Jessica Hanning


Testimonials

‘Very efficient construction team.’

‘Dan French is very hands-on and proactive in promoting his client’s interests in property transactions.’

‘Straight to the point, astute and efficient.’

‘Very well versed in property S&P contracts, and well respected by law firms acting for the other side on transactions. This helps to get complex deals across the line for our benefit.’

‘Within Anthony Harper, Tim Barclay stands out head and shoulders in a field of highly competent and dedicated lawyers. Tim offers the rare combination of sound legal knowledge, good communication skills and an excellent commercial sense to boot.’

‘Timely, responsive and personable.’

‘Very good, quick professional service.’

‘Tim Bunker is an excellent lawyer who goes the extra distance and is great to work with.’

Key clients

CPB Construction Pty Ltd


KiwiRail Ltd


Southbase Construction


Woolworths Limited


Stride Property Limited


Oceania Healthcare Limited


Ninety Four Feet Pty Limited


Templeton Kingsland Limited


Avior Consulting Pty Limited


Woolworths


Mainland Capital


The Fletcher Construction Company


KiwiRail


Fletcher Distribution


Argosy Property


Stride Property Group


Centuria


Otautahi Community Housing Trust


CDL Land New Zealand


Pacific Radiology Group


Sarin Group


Arvida Limited


Heredium Group


Huadu International NZ


Fulton Hogan Limited


Work highlights


  • Acting for Mainland Captial on the establishment on a new development growth fund, and the acquisition of properties to be acquired for the fund, valued in excess of $70m.
  • Acting for state-owned-enterprise KiwiRail on the development of its purpose-built train control centre at the Blue Mountains Campus, Upper Hutt, and leasing of that facility to Kiwirail under a 20 year lease.
  • Acting for Argosy Property on the complex redevelopment and lease of a building in Wellington to Statistics New Zealand, a government department.

Bell Gully

Clients have a ‘high degree of confidence’ in Bell Gully’s sizeable real estate and construction practice, which has a strong track record in high-value acquisitions and disposals, transformative infrastructure and development projects, and leasing matters. Karl Anderson leads the real estate practice, and Andrew Petersen advises on overseas investments in New Zealand, while Jane Holland is noted for her expertise in commercial leasing and development projects. Praised for its ‘strong litigation expertise’, the construction team is well-placed to advise on the full spectrum of contentious matters, in addition to construction and infrastructure projects and contract negotiations. Wellington-based David Chisnall, who specialises in the structuring, procurement and delivery of public and private sector construction and development projects, jointly leads the construction team alongside Ian Becke, who ‘has strong experience, both in New Zealand and Australia, across a variety of projects and in all phases of construction’. Wellington-based Toni Forrest, Jesse Wilson and Brad Ward are further key contacts in the team, while Simon Ladd left the firm to join Shortland Chambers in December 2021. All named practitioners are based in the Auckland office, unless stated otherwise.

Practice head(s):

David Chisnall; Ian Becke; Karl Anderson


Other key lawyers:

Jane Holland; Andrew Petersen; Jesse Wilson; Brad Ward; Toni Forrest; Kirsty Dobbs


Testimonials

‘Strong litigation expertise.’

‘They have a competent and effective team that is able to address complex and urgent construction disputes. I have a high degree of confidence in their legal expertise and commercial judgment.’

‘Jesse Wilson is articulate, intelligent and possesses sound analytical skills and commercial judgment.’

‘Brad Ward is thoughtful, focused and has a strong client service mentality. Produces quality work.’

‘Jane Holland is recognised and respected by everyone. She takes the time to understand key issues across the entire deal, to ensure the entire transaction succeeds.’

‘The Bell Gully team have great technical knowledge and attention to detail. Their advice and support is always up to date.’

‘Ian Becke has strong experience, both in New Zealand and Australia, across a variety of projects and in all phases of construction.’

‘David Chisnall is very succinct in his advice and quick to respond.’

Key clients

Auckland Transport


Tauranga City Council


Precinct Properties


PAG Real Estate


Costco


Tainui Group Holdings


Port Marlborough


Fletcher Building


Metlifecare


Waka Kotahi


West Village Capital Partners


Downer


CC Thalia Trust


Slade Health


Vital Healthcare


FountainVest Partners


Crown Infrastructure


Frucor Suntory


Lineage Logistics


Wilshire Group Limited


Westgate Residential Limited


Calibre partners


META (formerly Facebook)


St Kentigern College


Invesco Real Estate


Citibank


AA Insurance


The Royal Australian College of Physicians


Toyota New Zealand


Irongate


Abano Healthcare


Work highlights


  • Advised PAG Real Estate on the completion of its forward purchase of newly-built, circa 20,000m² premium grade office building at 136 Fanshawe Street, Auckland.
  • Advised Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC on its new strategic investment partnership with Precinct Properties Limited, involving the transfer to GIC of five Precinct assets (Defence House, Charles Ferguson Building and Mayfair House in Wellington and 10 and 12 Madden St in Auckland).
  • Advised Kiwi Property Group Limited on the development and leasing of a second, 6 Green Star-rated office tower at Sylvia Park, Auckland.

Buddle Findlay

Buddle Findlay’s property and construction practice is praised for its ‘extensive experience in significant public sector infrastructure and construction projects’, counting high-profile public bodies – such as Auckland Council, and Auckland Transport and Department of Internal Affairs – among its key roster of clients. In the firm’s Auckland office, Daniel Kelleher, who has expertise in local government projects, property finance transactions and urban renewal projects, jointly leads the real estate team alongside Wellington-based Charlotte von Dadelszen, who offers ‘valuable’ and specialist advice on Public Works Act transactions. In Auckland, head of construction Tom Bennett ‘provides timely, commercially astute and pragmatic advice’ to public and private sector clients on high-profile construction projects and procurement matters. Wellington-based special counsel Brannavan Gnanalingam and Auckland-based senior associate Ed McGimpsey are other key names.

Practice head(s):

Tom Bennett; Charlotte von Dadelszen; Tom Bennett


Other key lawyers:

Brannavan Gnanalingam; Ed McGimpsey


Testimonials

‘The team has extensive experience in significant public sector infrastructure projects and has an excellent understanding of the client organisation’s functions, drivers and priorities. The team has good depth, capacity and experience so is responsive and proactive providing advice which is appropriate, incisive and commercially sensible.’

‘Tom Bennett has extensive experience in leading significant infrastructure and construction projects. He is diligent and provides timely, commercially astute and pragmatic advice relying on his vast experience in this industry sector.’

‘The property team at Buddle Findlay really know their stuff. They have enormous institutional knowledge which we regularly plug into. The people in the team are knowledgeable, friendly and easy to deal with and we feel valued as a client.’

Key clients

Auckland Transport


Auckland Council


Olam International (and Olam Food Ingredients New Zealand)


Ministry of Primary Industries


The University of Auckland


Department of Corrections


Wellington International Airport


Department of Internal Affairs


Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment


Christchurch International Airport


Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency


ElectroNet Services and ElectroNet Transmission


Radio New Zealand


Contact Energy


Nestle New Zealand


Vodafone New Zealand


Bank of New Zealand


Department of Internal Affairs


Sky Network Television Limited


Contact Energy Limited


Grand Lakes Management Limited


Hotel Management (Featherston St) Limited


Olam Food Ingredients New Zealand Limited


Precinct Properties Holdings Limited


Landcorp Farming Limited


Norske Skog Tasman Limited


Auckland Council


Ministry of Education


GMP Pharmaceuticals


Generus Living Group


Work highlights


  • Advising Auckland Transport and Auckland Council on the City Rail Link (CRL) project, being New Zealand’s largest infrastructure project with a projected completion cost of NZ$4.4bn.
  • Advising the Department of Internal Affairs on development agreement and project documentation for the new National Archives Facility, being a bespoke facility developed to preserve NZ$1.7bn of New Zealand cultural treasures.
  • Advising Olam International Limited (and its New Zealand subsidiary Olam Food Ingredients New Zealand) on the development and construction of its first New Zealand dairy processing plant in Tokoroa, Waikato.
  • Advising Auckland Council on the development of the Aotea Station.

Chapman Tripp

Noted for its strong expertise in OIO consent issues, Chapman Tripp’s ‘excellent’ property and construction team advises public and private sector clients on the entire lifecycle of major construction and real estate projects, from procurement and joint venture agreements to project management and litigation. ‘Standout partnerMatthew Carroll spearheads the national practice and advises on the acquisition and disposal of commercial properties, development projects and leasing matters across the office, retail and industrial sectors, while Mark Nicholson focuses on development agreements and property transactions. Hamish Bolland, who leads the construction and major projects team, has experience in national and international construction projects, while Wellington-based Greg Wise acts for public sector clients on infrastructure projects. Consultant John McKay remains a key member of the team. All named practitioners operate from the firm’s Auckland office, unless stated otherwise.

Practice head(s):

Matt Carroll; Hamish Bolland


Other key lawyers:

Mark Nicholson; Greg Wise; John McKay


Testimonials

‘Excellent team, who are thorough and have great technical skills.’

‘The depth of knowledge for collaborative contracting is the key reason why we use Chapman Tripp, particularly Matt Carroll, who is known in the industry as the go-to for alliance issues.’

‘Matt Carroll is a standout partner. He is commercially minded and understands our organisation.’

Key clients

Auckland International Airport Limited


Westpac


Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited


Ministry of Health: Dunedin Hospital Redevelopment


Mercury NZ Limited


Ballance Agri-Nutrients


Wellington City Council


Department of Corrections


Ministry of Health: Hutt Valley Acute Mental Health Unit


Centuria Capital


Auckland Waterfront Apartments Limited


Willis Bond & Co


Property for Industry


Ric Kayne / Tara Iti Holdings


Hengyi


Tauranga Crossing Limited


Parliamentary Service and Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)


The Wellington Company / Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika


Department of Corrections


Wellington City Council


Wellington International Airport


Chorus


Work highlights


  • Advised the Ministry of Health on all aspects of its development of the New Dunedin Hospital.
  • Advised Willis Bond & Co on the development of the residential apartment projects at Wynyard Quarter, in central Auckland.
  • Advised Ric Kayne and Tara Iti Holdings on the development of golf courses, visitor accommodation and residential lots at Te Arai, Mangawhai, including assisting with the acquisition of leasehold and freehold estates and obtaining OIO consent for the development of two further courses.

Dentons New Zealand

Dentons New Zealand regularly advises central government bodies, local authorities, domestic contractors, and multinational corporates on major transportation, infrastructure and property development construction contracts, and counts high-value property portfolio acquisitions and disposals, as well as retail, office and industrial leasing matters, in its workload. In the firm’s Auckland office, head of real estate Matthew Ockleston has considerable experience acting for public sector clients in transport infrastructure projects, while Stuart Robertson spearheads the major projects and construction group and advises clients on a range projects, in addition to multi-party claims and construction disputes. In Wellington, Paul Holth and Ish Fraser are key contacts in the real estate team, along with Auckland-based Paula Ormandy and Michelle Hill, while Paul Buetow advises on transport, water and energy infrastructure projects from the firm’s Auckland office.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Ockleston; Stuart Robertson


Other key lawyers:

Paul Buetow; Paul Holth; Ish Fraser; Paula Ormandy; Michelle Hill; John Meads


Testimonials

‘Paul Holth and Matthew Ockleston have been hugely helpful. They consistently prioritise speaking with clients, and are efficiently able to decide what level of advice is required for a particular problem.’

‘A good understanding of the construction contract and processes, disputes and challenges. Stuart Robertson has a trades background and he quickly and easily grasps the issue to provide some early pointers.’

 

Key clients

New Zealand Transport Agency


Ministry of Social Development


Grand Complex Properties Limited


Universal Homes Limited


Ministry of Justice


ESR (Hong Kong)


DB Breweries Limited


Sanem Investments Limited


AMP Services (NZ) Limited


HSBC


Bridgestone New Zealand Ltd


George Weston Foods


Pro-Invest Group


Tāmaki Regeneration Limited


PMG Capital Fund


Fletcher Building Limited


Fisher & Paykel Appliances Limited


Oji Fibre Solutions


Danone Nutricia


KiwiRail


Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency


Downer New Zealand


Aurecon New Zealand


Calibre Consulting Limited


CentrePort Limited


Decmil


Work highlights


DLA Piper New Zealand

DLA Piper New Zealand continues to consolidate its ‘strength in the New Zealand market by leveraging the firm’s wider international experience’, as demonstrated by its advice on the domestic aspects of cross-border acquisitions and disposals, as well as development projects. National head of real estate Justin March manages the property portfolios of domestic and multinational corporates, while Heath Brunton has a ‘strong depth of experience’ in designing build lease agreements for office and industrial premises, in addition to advising on residential developments and mixed-use schemes. Mark Williamson, who leads the construction team, is praised for his ‘high level of knowledge and expertise’ in procurement and construction matters arising out of local government, retail and food manufacturing sectors. All named partners are based in the firm’s Auckland office.

Practice head(s):

Justin March; Mark Williamson


Other key lawyers:

Heath Brunton; Emma Moran


Testimonials

‘DLA Piper have a very strong real estate practice and a deep understanding of this sector in New Zealand.’

‘Increasing strength in the New Zealand market by leveraging the firm’s wider international experience.’

‘Heath Brunton is an experienced operator with strong depth of experience. She is very well known in the market, which helps ensure good outcomes for clients.’

‘Meticulous attention to detail.’

‘Excellent expertise and ability to communicate complex matters. Very responsive and quick turnaround times.’

‘Mark Williamson is very experienced, has an in-depth understanding of the construction market and excellent expertise. Very approachable. Advice is always spot-on and tailored exactly to clients’ requirements.’

‘Pragmatic and solution-focused.’

‘Mark Williamson has a high level of knowledge and expertise and is able to identify the right pathway best suited to meeting client objectives.’

Key clients

Foodstuffs North Island Limited


Cornwall Park Trust Board


Ingka Investments


Auckland Council


Mondelez


Lululemon


IAG


Simplicity


West City Partnership


Goodman


Discovery


Starship Foundation


Aon


Happy Valley Nutritional


AIG


Dairy Farm Partnership


Burberry


Lego


LOGOS Property


Tasman District Council


WT Partnership


Wellington Water Limited


Nelson City Council


Fletcher Building (PlaceMakers)


Contact Energy


Work highlights


  • Advising Foodstuffs North Island on its real estate portfolio and the acquisitions, disposals, and leasing for over 300 stores.
  • Advising Dairy Farms Partnership (DFP) on its sale of approximately 3,500 hectares of farmland in Central Otago, New Zealand to NZRLC Dairy Holdings Limited.
  • Advising Datagrid on its Southland property acquisition for the establishment of one of the New Zealand’s first hyper-scale data centre projects.
  • Acted for Auckland Council on the sale of its Amenities and Infrastructure Maintenance Services (AIMS) business unit.
  • Advising Babcock International, alongside David Holden Law, on the redrafting and renewal of a maritime fleet sustainment services agreement with the New Zealand Defence Force, for Babcock to provide dockyard facilities and engineering management services.

Hesketh Henry

Praised for its ‘excellent knowledge and niche capabilities’, Hesketh Henry is strong in contentious construction mandates, while also advising on commercial property acquisitions and disposals, subdivisions and leasing matters. Head of construction Nick Gillies ‘provides highly considered advice’ on the full range of construction matters, from time and money disputes and building defect claims to contract work, while Glen Holm-Hansen is praised for his ‘in-depth understanding in construction law’. Robert Berry, who has notable expertise in ground leases both historical and contemporary, jointly leads the real estate team alongside Brian Coburn, who advises on commercial office developments. Other key members of the practice include prominent litigators Helen Macfarlane and Christina Bryant, Jacintha Tan, and senior associate Sarah Holderness.

Practice head(s):

Nick Gillies; Robert Berry; Brian Coburn


Other key lawyers:

Helen Macfarlane; Glen Holm-Hansen; Christina Bryant; Jacintha Tan; Sarah Holderness


Testimonials

‘Nick and his team at Hesketh Henry provide an exemplary service to the major players in the NZ market.’

‘Glen Holm-Hansen has an in-depth understanding of construction law, but also displays a deeper understanding of construction in general and the day-to-day operational issues that face construction companies.’

‘Excellent knowledge, combined with a true commercial approach to addressing issues.’

‘Nick Gillies is knowledgeable, thoughtful and provides highly considered advice. Glen Holm- Hansen is thorough and tireless in trying to achieve desired outcomes.’

‘Exceptional technical skills in land law, particularly regarding subdivision and land development. Also strong in commercial leasing and banking, which enables a full service on development projects.’

‘Nick Gillies has solid experience and is readily available to give practical advice.’

‘Wonderful team, demonstrating excellent knowledge and niche capabilities.’

‘We engage both Jacintha Tan and Robert Berry and have found that they provide quality work. They understand our need for quick, practical advice on a day-to-day basis.’

Key clients

McConnell Dowell Constructors Ltd


Fulton Hogan Ltd


Naylor Love Ltd


WSP New Zealand Ltd


Norman Disney & Young Ltd


Russell Group (including Dominion Constructors Ltd)


Form Building & Developments Ltd


CMP Construction Ltd


Mainmark Ground Engineering (NZ) Ltd


MBSS Ltd t/a MAXRaft


The General Trust Board of the Diocese of Auckland


The Marianne Caughey Smith-Preston Memorial Rest Homes Trust Board


BW Group


Kahawai Point Developments Limited


Work highlights


  • Acting for WSP New Zealand Ltd in High Court proceedings concerning a prominent Christchurch building with alleged defects.
  • Acted for a specialist subcontractor in proceedings of practical importance to subcontractors, which concerned the duty of care owed by subcontractors to principals.

MinterEllisonRuddWatts

MinterEllisonRuddWatts’ real estate and construction practices exemplify ‘excellent knowledge’ across the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious matters, from high-value acquisitions, portfolio management and commercial leasing to major infrastructure projects and construction-related disputes. Head of real estate David Gilbert handles the acquisition, development and disposal of land, retail premises and office complexes, while Andrew Monteith has experience in large-scale infrastructure projects and consultant Ross Pickmere advises on a broad range of commercial property deals. Janine Stewart, who regularly acts on matters relating to defective buildings, as well as landlord and tenant obligations and rent review disputes, jointly leads the construction team alongside Travis Tomlinson, who focuses on public sector construction projects and capital works programs. Other key members of the team include infrastructure specialist Sarah Sinclair, expert construction litigator Stephen Price and Mark Crosbie. All named practitioners are based in the firm’s Auckland office.

Practice head(s):

David Gilbert; Janine Stewart; Travis Tomlinson


Other key lawyers:

Ross Pickmere; Andrew Monteith; Stephen Price; Sarah Sinclair; Mark Crosbie


Testimonials

‘Strong property knowledge.’

‘The team is very capable and always appears to be across current and developing industry issues.’

‘The individuals are very knowledgeable and proactive at foreseeing issues that need to be considered. Seem to be at the forefront of construction-related issues.’

‘Excellent knowledge and experience across the team, there hasn’t been any instances where they have been unsure about the best way to handle a situation.’

‘The individuals are very good at piecing together all of the information and from that preparing the required documentation.’

‘The team understands our business and can provide practical and pragmatic advice.’

‘Andrew Monteith is an excellent and approachable lawyer.’

Key clients

Metlifecare Limited


Mercury New Zealand Limited


Auckland Council


Wellington Gateway Partnership


Ōtākaro Limited


Department of Internal Affairs | Te Tari Taiwhenua


Auckland District Health Board


Taranaki District Health Board


Ministry of Transport


Kiwi Property Group


Jacobs New Zealand Limited


Tainui Group Holdings


Ministry of Justice


Ministry of Education


Ministry for Primary Industries


Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited


Ikea New Zealand


DCI Data Centres


Deka Immobilien Investment GmbH


OneFortyOne


Fisher and Paykel Healthcare


Metlifecare


Southern Cross


Z Energy


Westpac New Zealand


Tower Insurance


Argosy


Greenplan Forestry Limited


Channel Infrastructure New Zealand (formerly Refining NZ)


Ministry of Housing and Urban Development


Ministry of Education | Te Tāhuhu o Te Mātauranga


Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment


Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities


Newcrest Capital


Work highlights


  • Advising Ōtākaro Limited on all aspects of its NZ$1bn+ earthquake rebuild ‘Anchor Projects’ as part of the Christchurch earthquake rebuild.
  • Acting for both Auckland DHB and Taranaki DHB on their respective core development programmes – FIRP and Maunga Stage 2 respectively.
  • Acting for Metlifecare in proceedings before the High Court against James Hardie entities in New Zealand, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland, for the negligent design, manufacture and supply of products, and breaches of the Fair Trading Act 1986 and Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
  • Advising The New Zealand Refining Company Limited (now Channel Infrastructure) on the conversion of New Zealand’s only oil refinery to an import terminal.
  • Acting for IKEA on the acquisition and development of its first store in New Zealand.

Russell McVeagh

Russell McVeagh is praised for its ‘exceptional expertise in the real estate space’, as demonstrated by its advice on large-scale development projects and subdivisions, capital markets transactions, acquisitions and sales, as well as leasing arrangements. ‘Excellent operatorEd Crook chairs the national property and construction practice – including the equally capable front-end construction practice – and specialises in commercial property developments, sales and leasing matters, in addition to associated construction and finance work. Polly Pope spearheads the construction litigation group, acting for principals, financiers, contractors, subcontractors and consultants on a broad range of disputes, while David Butler provides ‘invaluable’ advice on real estate capital markets transactions and development projects. ‘Extremely practicalAnna Crosbie focuses on acquisitions, residential developments and leasing matters, while construction litigators Michael Taylor and Sarah Blackmore are also key contacts. All named practitioners are based in the firm’s Auckland office.

Practice head(s):

Ed Crook; Polly Pope


Other key lawyers:

David Butler; Anna Crosbie; Michael Taylor; Sarah Blackmore; Doran Wyatt


Testimonials

‘We have had a long relationship of 15 years with David Butler. When we have complex issues, David’s strategic thinking and business solutions have been invaluable to create a path forward to achieve our business goals.’

‘Excellent depth in team with ability to handle high-profile and complex matters.’

‘Ed Crook is the market leader and an excellent operator.’

‘This is a young, dynamic practice with real depth in the construction space.’

‘Anna Crosbie and Michael Taylor both combine great expertise with a personable and commercial approach.’

‘Natalie Sundstrom is excellent at handling and managing multiple workloads. Provides sound solutions when issues arise.’

‘Exceptional expertise in the real estate space.’

‘Anna Crosbie is extremely practical and commercial, with deep understanding of the market. Always provides excellent advice.’

Key clients

T&G Global


McGrathNicol


Queenstown Airport Corporation


PSPIB/CPPIB Waiheke Inc.


AMP Capital


Precinct Properties


Auckland International Airport


Argon Construction


Wellington Water


Summerset Group Holdings


Ponga Silva Limited.


Kiwi Property


Goodman New Zealand Limited


Precinct Properties


KiwiRail Holdings Limited


Oyster


Vector


Winton Land Limited


Auckland International Airport Limited


Woolworths New Zealand


Work highlights


  • Advising Precinct Properties on their $1bn retail and office tower development at Commercial Bay in Auckland’s CBD.
  • Advising PSPIB/CPPIB Waiheke Inc. and AMP Capital on its development of a new Archives facility in Wellington for c$290m.
  • Acting for the lead plaintiff, and group of funded plaintiffs, in relation to a substantial class action against the manufacturer and suppliers of cladding known as “Alucobond”.
  • Advised Ponga Silva on the acquisition of the Tokomaru Forestry.
  • Advised Kiwi Property on its agreement with IKEA representing IKEA’s first entry into the New Zealand market.

Simpson Grierson

Praised as a ‘true industry leading practice’, Simpson Grierson has a ‘great depth of skill and knowledge’ in construction litigation, augmented by its demonstrable capability in large-scale development projects, particularly in the transport sector. The practice also acts for buyers, sellers and commercial property developers on managing PPPs and OIO land acquisition applications. Head of construction Michael Weatherall has considerable experience in the structuring and development of major infrastructure projects, collaborative contracting, and procurement processes, while ‘strong advocateJo-Anne Knight covers the full range of construction-related disputes and Shanti Frater is commended for her ‘encyclopaedic knowledge’. Greg Allen, who spearheads the infrastructure group, advises on forestry, farm and property transactions, as well as land acquisitions, while Michael Wood leads the commercial property team. Nick Wilson and Tara Wylie, who advises on property developments and leasing matters, are also key members of the practice. All named practitioners are based in the firm’s Auckland office.

Practice head(s):

Michael Weatherall; Greg Allen; Michael Wood


Other key lawyers:

Jo-Anne Knight; Shanti Frater; Michael Wood; Tara Wylie; Nick Wilson; Donna Hurley; Lisa Curran; Sonia Vitas; Sandy Donaldson


Testimonials

‘Jo-Anne Knight is excellent in mediations and court hearings. A very strong advocate.’

‘Significant experience in their area of practice with good ability to tap into other teams across the firm as required.’

‘Tara Wylie is approachable and provided excellent advice that is readily understandable across our business.’

Key clients

Auckland Council


Watercare Services Limited


Tauranga City Council


Christchurch City Council


Queenstown-Lakes District Council


Auckland Transport


Waitemata District Health Board


Horowhenua District Council


Gisborne District Council


Premier Lifestyle Villages Limited


CPB Contractors Pty Limited


Dominion Constructors Limited


Schick Group


Downer New Zealand Limited


Southbase Construction Limited


Bunnings Limited


Lodestone Energy Limited


Lanskey Constructions Limited


Vestas-New Zealand Wind Technology Limited


Architectus


University of Otago


Intergroup Limited


Schering-Plough Animal Health Limited


Great Eagle Hotels (New Zealand) Limited


Clark Road Developments Limited


Icon Co Pty (NZ) Limited


National Storage Limited


NZ Strong Construction Limited


Palmerston North City Council


Roxy-Pacific NZI Limited


New Zealand Carbon Farming


Heritage Lifecare Limited


Auckland Transport / Eastern Busway Alliance


Auckland Council


City Rail Link Limited – City Rail Link


Auckland Council – North/West Office Hub, Munro Lane, Albany


Work highlights


  • Advised City Rail Link Ltd in relation to overall project procurement in the first phase. In the current phase of this project, we advised Auckland Council in relation to its approval as a Sponsor of C5/C7 Work Package into the CRL Alliance.
  • Advising on all aspects of the procurement phase, and continue to advise Watercare Services Ltd on the construction phases for the Central Interceptor Main Works project.
  • Acting for Auckland Council in its defence of several building defects claims.
  • Acted for Heritage Lifecare Limited with respect to the sale and leaseback of 38 of its aged care and retirement village properties throughout New Zealand to Centuria Capital for $291m with a minimum 30 year leaseback term (excluding renewals).
  • Acting for New Zealand Carbon Farming on its identification and acquisition of established forests (either freehold land or forestry rights) or farm land suitable for conversion and planting of permanent forest sinks.

Thompson Blackie Biddles

Based in Auckland, boutique firm Thompson Blackie Biddles houses an ‘experienced team with exceptional breadth and depth of knowledge in the real estate sector’. The practice, which is ‘well tapped into the New Zealand real estate market’, has demonstrable experience in high-value acquisitions and divestment transactions, as well as development projects and commercial leasing matters. Key clients include domestic and multinational property companies, private equity funds, high-net-worth individuals and charitable entities, in addition to overseas developers and investors. The practice is jointly led by ‘commercially savvyJames BlackieGreg Thompson, who is noted for his expertise in property leasings and projects developments; ‘exceptionalJoe Biddles; and ‘best-in-classSam Greenwood, who collectively bring ‘a wealth of local intellect and experience to the table’. Associates Tom McGarry and David Simpson are also key members in the team.

Practice head(s):

Greg Thompson; James Blackie; Joe Biddles; Sam Greenwood


Other key lawyers:

Tom McGarry; David Simpson


Testimonials

‘Boutique practice with an excellent understanding of all property sector issues.’

‘Highly skilled, specialist real estate lawyers.’

‘They are boutique operators who are very commercial, pragmatic and focused on client outcomes, but also have the balance of understanding the whole picture. They are very well tapped into the New Zealand real estate market and brings a wealth of local intellect and experience to the table.’

Key clients

Precinct Properties Holdings Limited


Kiwi Property Group Limited


Stride Property


Investore Property


Todd Property


Robt. Jones Holdings Limited


Oyster Property


KKR / Oyster Property JV


Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad


Fife Capital


Wilson Parking New Zealand Limited


Lion – Beer Spirits and Wine (NZ) Limited


Goodman Property Trust


Trust Investments Management


Hallenstein Bros. Limited / Glassons Limited


McConnell Property


Blackstone/151 Property


Te Arawa Group


Ariadne Marinas Oceania Pty Limited/Orams Group Limited


Fort Hill Property Limited


Tim Glasson


Krukziener Property


Wendy’s Restaurants


Newcrest Group


Higgins Family Holdings Limited/Frances Holdings Limited


Ladstone Holdings Limited


Spotlight Group


Silverfin Property


UPC Group


Tramco


Foodstuffs North Island


Walker & Hall


Work highlights


  • Acting for MRCB with respect to its development of Auckland Council’s prepaid leasehold land at Aotea Station for the first comprehensive over-station development in New Zealand and the acquisition of Bledisloe House and surrounding assets.
  • Acting for Precinct in relation to the anchor tenant leasing at 1 Queen Street.
  • Acting for Goodman Property Trust in its acquisition (and leaseback to Sky) of the Sky Television site in Mt Wellington.

Tompkins Wake

Tompkins Wake’s ‘commercially astute’ real estate practice advises local government authorities, developers and investors, property funds and private sector clients on development projects, acquisitions and disposals, as well as leasing matters. Scott Ratuki, who has experience in large-scale commercial developments and subdivisions, jointly leads the practice alongside Peter Duncan, who specialises in local government property mandates. In November 2021, Andrew Orme left for Lane Neave, while Rotorua-based Catriona Gordon joined the firm following its merger with Lava Law. Other key members of the team include Peter Fanning, who focuses on development projects, subdivisions and land acquisitions, Kate Searancke and Campbell Stewart. All named practitioners are based in the firm’s Hamilton office, unless stated otherwise.

Practice head(s):

Scott Ratuki; Peter Duncan


Other key lawyers:

Peter Fanning; Campbell Stewart; Kate Searancke; Catriona Gordon


Testimonials

‘Very responsive.’

‘I’ve had the pleasure in dealing with several of the partners at Tompkins Wake. They have always be commercially astute, whilst providing clear and well-considered legal advice.’

Key clients

Stark Property Group


AFI Investments


Fosters Construction


Rotorua Lakes Council


Hamilton City Council


Waipa District Council


WEL Energy Networks Limited


Waitomo District Council


Work highlights


  • Advised AFI Investments on its downtown development project that will substantially transform the southern end of the Hamilton CBD, and the face of corporate office space in Hamilton city.
  • Advised Hamilton City Council on acquisition of land under the Public Works Act