Simpson Grierson advises on transport infrastructure projects, with particular strength in large-scale road and rail developments in Auckland. The practice is co-led by Sarah Mitchell, Nick Wilson, Sarah Scott and Michael Weatherall. Mitchell specialises in strategic planning and consenting for major infrastructure projects; Wilson regularly advises on Public Works Act acquisitions, urban regeneration, and climate resilience; Scott focuses on environmental and resource management litigation; and Weatherall has strong expertise in construction law. Bill Loutit advises on resource management and local government matters, while Lisa Curran, who rejoined in May 2025 from MinterEllisonRuddWatts, is a specialist in front-end construction procurement for transport projects.
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Key clients
- City Rail Link Ltd
- Auckland Transport
- Auckland Council
- CPB Contractors Limited
- Wellington City Council
- Tauranga City Council
- Queenstown Lakes District Council
- Christchurch City Council
- Transdev New Zealand
- NZ Transport Agency
- Port Otago Ltd
- Port Nelson Ltd
- Port of Napier Ltd
Work highlights
Acting for Auckland Transport and the Eastern Busway Alliance on resource consent applications, Notices of Requirements and the acquisition of land to enable the development of the NZ$1.4 billion Eastern Busway Project.
Advising the City Rail Link (CRL) Project, a large infrastructure project undertaken in New Zealand at an estimated cost of NZ$5.493bn.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Lisa Curran
Practice head
Sarah Mitchell; Nick Wilson; Sarah Scott; Michael Weatherall
Other key lawyers
Lisa Curran; Bill Loutit; Rachel Abraham; Lucy Westenra