
Hesketh Henry’s construction and real estate practices cover the full spectrum of their respective fields. The construction team, led by Glen Holm-Hansen, specialises in disputes across all stages of projects, from procurement and contractual issues through to post-construction adjudications, mediations, arbitrations, and High Court proceedings. Nick Gillies has also been central to developing the firm’s construction practice, while Helen Macfarlane provides expertise in construction, property, and insurance disputes. The real estate practice, co-led by Robert Berry and Barret Blaylock, advises on acquisitions, disposals, developments, subdivisions, leasing, and communal ownership matters. Brian Coburn provides advisory and transactional support for high-value commercial property investments, often representing overseas high-net-worth clients. Melissa Russell joined from Kennedys in October 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Barret Blaylock is responsive and timely when services are required.'
- 'Smart, practical but strategic - great combination.'
- 'They talk in plain language and provide options.'
Key clients
- BW Group
- Kahawai Point Developments Ltd
- Octagon Developments Ltd
- Octagon (Terrace Management) Ltd
- The Marianne Caughey Smith
- Preston Memorial Rest Homes Trust Board
- The General Trust Board of the Diocese of Auckland
- Airedale Property Trust
- New Zealand Methodist Trust Association
- Synergy Properties -The Palms Lifestyle Village Ltd -Pinefarm 25 Joint Venture
- 22 Terrace Investment Ltd
- Speldhurst Country Estate Ltd -Richmond Villas Ltd
Work highlights
Advising Kahawai Point Developments Ltd on its greenfield development of an 800+ lot residential subdivision.
Advising Bank Arcade Holdings Ltd on its lease with Meridian Energy Ltd for commercial office space forming part of the Old Bank Chambers building in Wellington CBD.
Acting as defence counsel for WSP in relation to High Court proceedings commenced by a commercial developer regarding alleged structural design defects for a new Christchurch CBD building.
Lawyers
Leading partners: Real estate and construction
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Robert Berry; Barret Blaylock; Glen Holm-Hansen
Other key lawyers
Nick Gillies; Helen Macfarlane; Brian Coburn; Melissa Russell
Comparative Guides
Comparative Guide
Construction
New Zealand
Glen Holm-Hansen, Helen Macfarlane, James Lewis & Rusi Jagose
Comparative Guide
Employment and Labour Law
New Zealand
Alison Maelzer, Jim Roberts & Jodi Sharman
Comparative Guide
Employment and Labour Law
New Zealand
Alison Maelzer, Jim Roberts & Jodi Sharman
Comparative Guide
Employment and Labour Law
New Zealand
Alison Maelzer, Jim Roberts & Jodi Sharman

