
MinterEllisonRuddWatts advises on the full spectrum of competition law matters, including merger clearances and anticompetitive conduct, as well as anti-dumping and trade-related competition issues. Jennifer Hambleton leads the team, recognised for her work on complex merger clearances, enforcement actions and regulatory matters, with notable expertise in grocery market and retail payments regulation. She regularly represents clients in Commerce Act and Fair Trading Act investigations. Consultant Ross Patterson is also a key figure, noted for his strong expertise in both competition and telecommunications law.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'This team offers high quality and timely advice on competition and regulatory matters. They listen to our needs and then exceed them.'
- 'Unsurpassed technical knowledge on competition NZ regulation and Regulators, translated into easy to understand and commercial advice. The guidance provided by MERW gave us an even better outcome than expected. Highly recommended.'
- 'Jennifer Hambleton assisted our business with a highly complex competition law matter, which she navigated with exceptional skill and expertise.'
- 'Jennifer demonstrates an impressive depth of knowledge and a keen understanding of the intricate nuances of competition law. She has a remarkable ability to navigate the complexities of the law and provide clear, strategic guidance while making herself available to offer insights and provide invaluable support.'
- 'I have relied on Dr Ross Patterson and his team for years to provide me with all of my competition and telecommunications regulatory advice. Ross brings a unique depth of expertise. What sets Ross and his team apart is their ability to translate dense legal and economic material into strategic, clear, and actionable advice.'
- 'Ross has always brought a calm, considered, and forward-thinking approach. Jovana is responsive, collaborative, and genuinely invested in understanding our business — not just the legal issues.'
Work highlights
Acted for AlphaTheta Corporation in relation to their proposed acquisition of New Zealand-based Serato Audio Research Limited.
Acted for Tuatahi, one of New Zealand’s four regulated fibre companies, in relation to a significant regulatory matter.
Acted for ACM Holdings, a leading cash in transit service provider, in relation to its sale to Evergreen.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Jennifer Hambleton
Other key lawyers
Ross Patterson; Jovana Nedeljkov
