Anthony Harper’s employment and health and safety team is frequently instructed on internal investigations, fatal incident responses, and complex workplace restructurings. The group operates across two core departments, employment and health and safety, drawing on specialist knowledge from both areas. The practice is jointly led by Grant Nicholson, a trusted adviser on corporate governance and compliance, and Anne Wilson, who is noted for her expertise in employment matters arising from M&A transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Their approach is to take a very personal client-focused approach.’
‘They understand what the client is looking for – and sometimes what the client doesn't know they are looking for – and offer unique solutions to suit all situations and outcomes.’
‘Very attentive team that utilise their combined skills and experience to meet the needs of the client. As a team they delve deeply into what the client's current situation is and how they can assist.’
‘Grant Nicholson is a standout legal superstar. He can relate to clients on a very human level – listening, relating and providing honest and practical advice that is easily digestible. From the board level to senior managers, Grant has the ability to relate to a wide range of clients and is just a great person to deal with. No matter how busy he is, he always finds time to meet our needs, and is very attentive to replying and coordinating a suitable response.’
‘I use Anthony Harper for Grant Nicholson's health and safety knowledge. He is so easy to work with along with his special counsel Catalijne Pille. The support they provide is amazing and the emotional care that they provide is fantastic. When in a crisis, Grant provides good legal advice but also reminds you to look after your team. I do find this skill set can be rare to find!’
Key clients
- Banyan Software
- BDO Christchurch
- Coca-Cola Europacific Partners New Zealand
- Dairyworks
- Freightways Express
- MMA Offshore (now Cyan Renewables)
- Ngati Awa Group Holdings
- Oji Fibre Solutions (NZ)
- Port of Tauranga
- Robert Walters
- Skyline Enterprises
- Smart Environmental
- Stonewood Group Limited
- StraitNZ
- Summerset Group Holdings
Work highlights
Advising and representing Summerset in a coronial inquiry after a resident drowned in a spa pool at its Christchurch village in May 2022.
Advised Port of Tauranga Limited throughout Maritime New Zealand’s investigation and now representing the company in relation to a charge laid under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, following an incident in December 2023 where a stevedore narrowly avoided being crushed by a container.
Assisted Banyan Software with the acquisition of the Medtech Global Group.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Grant Nicholson; Anne Wilson
Other key lawyers
Harriet Sloane (née France); Catalijne Pille