Dentons’ Papua New Guinea practice is led by Wavie Kendino Leki, who is highly regarded for her work in finance, corporate and commercial matters. Steve Patrick oversees the commercial and energy practice, while Erik Andersen stands out as a litigator, regularly acting in complex cases. Ethel Goina focuses on civil litigation, with particular strength in commercial disputes. Recent addition Jason Brooks is recognised for his combined litigation and advisory capabilities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Very experienced and skilled litigation partners and team. Very experienced and skilled corporate and commercial team. ’
‘The litigation team, partners Erik Andersen and Jason Brooks, are the most experienced, successful and skilled team in the jurisdiction now.’
‘The recent appointment of Wavie Kendino Leki as the Managing Partner for Dentons PNG has been a real game changer.’
‘Dentons is a long-established firm in PNG with a depth of knowledge and continuity of professional staff.’
‘Erik Andersen and Jason Brooks are stand-outs given their experience and depth of knowledge of PNG law and practice. Also, their knowledge and experience in respect of other practitioners and judges.’
‘Dentons have built a culture of performance and have a strong blend of both local and international experience. No matter what partner you are dealing with, they appear aligned in their delivery commitments. Recent dealings, involving litigation, have displayed deep knowledge of local laws, the Justice system, excellent communications and strong negotiation skills.’
Key clients
- Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
- Westpac Banking Corporation
- ExxonMobil
- TotalEnergies
- Asian Development Bank
- Independent State of Papua New Guinea (The Government)
- Central Bank of Papua New Guinea
- International Finance Corporation
- Kumul Petroleum Holdings
- Origin
- Kina Securities Limited
- Aon
Work highlights
Advising PNG Ports on complex negotiations with the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission for the 2025–2029 Regulatory Contract, which governs pricing, capital and operating expenditure across PNG’s declared ports.
Acted for Puma Energy in high-profile disputes concerning fuel supply and offshore account issues, including successfully resisting interim orders and securing discontinuance of Central Bank proceedings.
Advising TWL Energy Ventures/Arran Energy on commercial and licensing disputes concerning major condensate-rich gas fields in Western and Gulf Provinces.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Jason Brooks
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Wavie Kendino Leki
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Ethel Goina
Practice head
Wavie Kendino Leki
Other key lawyers
Ethel Goina; Patrick Steve; Erik Andersen