Back to rankings
New Zealand
3

Intellectual property

Tompkins Wake logo

Tompkins Wake

More information
Tompkins Wake is well known for its expertise in trade mark protection, brand enforcement, and sophisticated cross-border IP strategies. Shelley Slade-Gully leads the practice, bringing to bear deep experience in complex disputes, oppositions, and licensing matters. The team advises clients across a broad spectrum of industries, from technology and AI to gaming, motorsport, financial services, agritech, and media.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Shelley Slade-Gully- very commercial, practical, and has a strong understanding of the law. Great client service. A delight to work with.’

  • ‘Very good litigation experience. Dedicated staff with strong technical and commercial skills.’

  • ‘Natasha Alley is exceptionally strong on trade mark and IP matters, given her experience as an Assistant Commissioner with IPONZ for 10 years. She is very committed and hard-working. The client had high expectations, and Natasha and the rest of the team met these with aplomb.’

  • 'Shelley Slade-Gulley is at the top of her game in TM law. She always provides accurate, timely and practical advice. She advocates for us and simplifies the complexities into actionable advice.'

  • 'The intellectual property team at Tompkins Wake provide exceptional guidance and expertise. They ensure that they understand your business and your international footprint so that your brand is well protected.'

  • 'Shelley Slade-Gully oversees our international brand protection. She is professional, proactive and provides sound advice and guidance.'

Key clients

  • Barfoot & Thompson
  • Eagle Technology
  • New Zealand Plumbing World
  • The Thinking Studio (operating as Yabble)
  • Altered Capital

Work highlights

Advised Yabble on its acquisition by YouGov Plc, including complex cross-border IP due diligence and the valuation and transfer of AI-driven technology assets.
Advising NZPM Group on trade mark portfolio management and brand protection across New Zealand and Australia, including strategy, filing, disputes, and acquired distinctiveness claims for core and secondary brands.
Advising Altered Capital on multiple venture capital investments in New Zealand, including complex IP due diligence to assess asset ownership, value, and risk in early-stage companies.

Practice head

Shelley Slade-Gully

Other key lawyers

Natasha Alley