Noted for its expertise in local government law and infrastructure projects, Simpson Grierson is often engaged in construction litigation. Greg Allen heads the firm’s real estate practice from Auckland, and is knowledgeable of land developments, while Nick Wilson is proficient in public body property transactions. Tara Wylie often handles overseas investment matters and Michael Wood handles property asset management. The ‘excellent’ Michael Weatherall leads the firm’s construction team and Jo-Anne Knight specialises in construction disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Simpson Grierson has considerable construction litigation experience. They are a highly regarded full service firm.’
‘The team was very responsive, had excellent service quality for the legal scope, and demonstrated a strong understanding of our business. They used their capabilities to solve our problems precisely and efficiently.’
‘Despite being a team within one of NZ's major law firms, the real estate team is extremely approachable and down to earth. Their advice and assistance provided is clear and concise, provided promptly, and takes account of the commercial imperatives that our business is subject to.'
‘The team that I worked with were highly professional and knowledgeable, and were always more than happy to assist and explain in 'lay man' terminology to assist non lawyers to understand better.'
‘Jo-Anne Knight has considerable construction litigation experience. Her advice is pragmatic, tailored to our needs, and insightful. Jo-Anne is very collaborative and a pleasure to work with.’
‘Jo Anne Knight is very capable and experienced across all forums.'
‘The team I worked with provided excellent advice and were readily available. Michael Weatherall was excellent.'
‘For real estate related matters, our key contact and go-to is Tara Wylie. Tara has a calm and thorough approach, is very experienced and personable with it.'
Key clients
- Auckland Council
- Queenstown Lakes District Council
- Waka Kotahi Wakatipu Transport Alliance
- Watercare Services Limited
- Christchurch City Council
- Tauranga City Council
- Auckland Transport
- Watercare Services Limited
- Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
- Queenstown Lakes District Council
- Elecnor New Zealand Limited
- Auckland Council
- Gisborne District Council
- Auckland Transport
- Eastern Busway Alliance
- Toda Corporation
- Dunedin City Council
- Fletcher Residential Limited
- New Zealand Carbon Farming
- Vivid Living Limited
Work highlights
Advising Watercare Services Limited on the drafting, negotiation, and strategy for the first half of a 10 year proactive Asset Updates and Renewal Programme for its water assets in Auckland.
Advising Christchurch City Council on its Canterbury Multi-Use Arena Project.
Representing Auckland Council on a range of defective building claims, primarily in High Court proceedings.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame: Real estate and construction
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: Real estate and construction
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Jo-Anne Knight
Michael Wood
Tara Wylie
Next Generation Partners: Real estate and construction
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Nick Wilson
Practice head
Michael Weatherall; Greg Allen
Other key lawyers
Nick Wilson; Tara Wylie; Michael Wood; Jo-Anne Knight; Will Barnes; Nicola Peak; Edward Warren; Donna Hurley; Shanti Frater; Sonia Vitas; Mark Gillard