MinterEllisonRuddWatts is an active firm within the insurance sphere, handling both contentious and advisory matters. The team is regularly engaged in complex coverage disputes, regulatory investigations, and compliance issues involving insurance and financial services legislation. Andrew Horne is recognised for his work on high-value and sensitive disputes, frequently acting in complex commercial litigation with insurance dimensions, and Nick Frith continues to establish himself as a key insurance litigator, advising on earthquake-related claims and other coverage issues. Both partners remain central to the firm’s growth in the insurance field.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Sound all-round practice.’
- ‘Nick Frith - engaged, highly client-focused, commercial and astute.’
- ‘The depth of industry and case law knowledge of Andrew Horne is exceptional. Andrew applies this to issues in a pragmatic and commercial way and is excellent in a large meeting and in presenting. Andrew is responsive, personable and a pleasure to deal with.’
- ‘Andrew Horne: A clear leader in his field with extensive experience and knowledge, delivered in a clear, practical and concise manner. First in class lawyer.'
- Olivia De Pont: A rising star. Extensive knowledge of the law and the file, approachable, available, an exceptional senior associate to Andrew Horne. Highly rated.’
- 'The team is approachable and well able to manage a range of often difficult stakeholders.'
Key clients
- AA Insurance
- AIA
- Aon
- Asteron Life Insurance
- HDI Global Speciality SE
- Marsh
- Medical Assurance Society
- Suncorp New Zealand
- Tower Insurance
- Vero
- Willis Towers Watson
Work highlights
Acting for MAS in relation to a Canterbury Earthquake claim involving complex apportionment and limitations issues.
Representing Willis in an application for non-party discovery orders arising from fire damage at the under-construction Sky City New Zealand International Convention Centre (damage estimated at more than $NZ340 million).
Advising Tower Insurance in relation to insurance claims for damage to houses and land caused by catastrophic floods in Auckland in 2023.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Olivia De Pont
Practice head
Andrew Horne; Stacey Shortall
Other key lawyers
Nick Frith; Olivia de Pont