Dentons' team houses renowned investment funds specialists who deliver expert advice to a diverse, high-profile client base across New Zealand and the Trans-Tasman region. The team advises on both retail and wholesale/private fund structures, and regularly supports global businesses on New Zealand investment funds and financial services regulation. Co-lead Catriona Grover brings over 20 years' of experience in transactional and regulatory mandates relevant to the financial services sector. Fellow co-lead David Ireland continues to guide clients through regulatory reforms and fund projects. Tom McLaughlin brings international funds experience gained in New York and the Cayman Islands.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The firm takes pride in getting to know and understand our business operations and needs, so that it not only responds to our requests, but takes the initiative.'

  • ‘Dentons are trusted advisers in the investment funds space. The relevant practitioners are approachable, and we find the advice practical and user-friendly.'

  • ‘The individuals we work with communicate their advice in a helpful and client-centric way and have deep sector knowledge. We work primarily with Cat Grover and David Ireland in investment funds.’

  • ‘All team members provide professional, confident service regardless of experience level.’

  • ‘Cat Grover has a practical, efficient style and a talent for getting to the heart of the issue quickly.'

  • ‘High level of expertise, but also pragmatic and business focused. They ensure all team members, including more junior members are involved on matters and meeting the clients. ’

Key clients

  • ASB Bank Limited
  • ANZ Bank New Zealand Limited
  • Mercer
  • AMP Wealth Management New Zealand Limited
  • Roger Dickie
  • Fisher Funds Management Limited
  • Whai Rawa Fund Limited
  • Consilium NZ Limited
  • Kernel Wealth Limited
  • The New Zealand Guardian Trust Company Limited
  • Reserve Bank of New Zealand Staff Superannuation and Provident Fund
  • Civic Financial Services

Work highlights

Acting for Mercer in supporting its first set of Climate Standards for all its managed investment schemes under the new climate-related disclosure regime.
Representing Consilium NZ in the development and launch of its new KiwiSaver scheme offering.
Advising AMP on the transition of investment management from ANZ New Zealand Investments to BlackRock.

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.

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

Catriona Grover; David Ireland

Other key lawyers

Tom McLaughlin