Hesketh Henry > Auckland, New Zealand > Firm Profile
Hesketh Henry Offices
HSBC Tower, Level 14
188 Quay Street
Auckland 1010
New Zealand
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Hesketh Henry > The Legal 500 Rankings
New Zealand > Insurance Tier 2
Hesketh Henry demonstrates strength in coverage, business interruption, cyber, professional indemnity, health and safety, and regulatory matters. With over three decades of experience, Alan Sherlock leads the practice, specialising in supporting insurers and pursuing or defending claims as they relate to marine insurance, fire insurance, reinsurance and third-party liability. Litigator Helen Macfarlane and managing partner Christina Bryant are also key practitioners. Counsel Stephanie Corban also defends insureds in relation to negligence claims.Practice head(s):
Alan Sherlock; Helen Macfarlane; Christina Bryant
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A team of diverse and competent lawyers, who have good experience and a committment to their clients.’
‘Stephanie Corban is a good operator, who is honest, hardworking and has good attention to detail.’
‘The biggest attribute of Hesketh Henry is their prompt and efficient service. The team that we have had the pleasure of working with are very much relatable and provide sound advice. Hesketh Henry are always proactive and keep their clients well informed.’
‘Stephanie Corban: every case she has worked on for us has been of a high standard. She is very approachable and we feel she takes a real interest in our business and product to be able to give us sound advice.’
Key clients
Suncorp Group New Zealand Ltd
Vero Insurance
AA Insurance Ltd
AIG Insurance
Chubb Insurance
Underwriting Agencies of New Zealand Ltd / Underwriting Agencies of Australia Pty Ltd
Charterers P & I Club
Dual New Zealand Ltd
AmTrust International
The New India Assurance Co Ltd
Ando Insurance
Compagnie Française D’Assurance Pour Le Commerce Extérieur (Coface)
Work highlights
- Acting for Vero Insurance in High Court proceedings concerning a NZ$20m claim following fire damage to a very large aluminium extrusion plant.
- Advised Underwriting Agencies of New Zealand on an important but unsettled area of insurance law in New Zealand, namely the applicable legal test for whether an insured has taken reasonable care.
- Acting for Vero Insurance in an important claim arising from a manufacturing defect causing a vehicle fire.
New Zealand > Labour and employment Tier 2
Hesketh Henry frequently acts for employers, employees, and unions across various industries, including manufacturing, aviation, marine, professional services, and utilities, in addition to the public sector. Based in Auckland, Jim Roberts has close to 30 years’ experience in the field, leveraging an in-depth knowledge of the Employment Contacts Act 1991, Employment Relations Act 2000, and the Labour Relations Act 1987. Roberts co-leads the team, which focuses on disputes, legislative compliance, and health and safety issues, alongside Alison Maelzer and Jodi Sharman.Practice head(s):
Jim Roberts; Alison Maelzer; Jodi Sharman
Testimonials
‘Highly case-orientated team with pragmatic solutions during tough negotiations’
‘Team are super practical in advise, approachable and connected; if we speak with one person, we know the whole team are going to be across the issue.’
‘Alison Maelzer is the main partner we work with, and she is extremely responsive, efficient and very knowledgable. Nothing is too much trouble, and her advice gives me confidence.’
‘This practice engages in a true partnership with you. What makes them unique is there practical, down-to-earth advice, which is technically excellent but real. They have significant depth behind their answers which you can rely on.’
‘They are people you actually enjoy talking to. The key people have an excellent sense of humour and they make a point of being exceptionally available. They are there for you!’
‘Jim Roberts has significant knowledge he brings to any situation and is one of the best in the employment law field. I would trust his opinion on any matter and he gives you confidence.’
‘What makes Alison Maelzer stand out is her ability to ask you the right questions to get the best answers. Invaluable in terms of cutting to the chase. One of the best I have dealt with in considering all angles in a phone call without any heads up about what you are going to talk labour.’
‘The team is super knowledgeable, capable, and responds quickly.’
Key clients
Restaurant Association of New Zealand
Corrections Association of New Zealand Incorporated
Suncorp Group Services NZ Ltd
Metropolitan Glass & Glazing Ltd
Northpower Ltd
Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Ltd
Aviation & Marine Engineers Association
InterMed Medical Ltd
Hella New Zealand Ltd
German-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Incorporated
Amy Tea Consulting Limited
Behemoth Brewing Company Ltd
Sitel New Zealand Ltd
GUD NZ Holdings Ltd
Construkt Architects Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising the Restaurant Association of New Zealand, which represents the majority of restaurants and cafes in New Zealand, on a union application for a Fair Pay Agreement, the first FPA in New Zealand for the hospitality sector following the enactment of The Fair Pay Agreements Act 2022.
- Represented the Corrections Association of New Zealand Inc successfully from an application by the Chief Executive of the Department of Corrections to dismiss important proceedings in relation to a prison riot and staff safety.
- Advised Suncorp Group Services NZ Ltd, which has over 900 employees in New Zealand, on a wide range of employment and associated matters, including assisting with a complex disciplinary process for a senior employee, and providing strategic advice for union bargaining purposes.
New Zealand > Real estate and construction
Auckland-based Hesketh Henry is ‘a stand out in the New Zealand market for its construction litigation practice‘, handling a wide range of complex and high-profile construction disputes. The team garners praise for being ‘practical and commercially robust‘ and ‘easy to work with‘, and is led by Nick Gillies, who ‘combines excellent technical skills with strong commercial acumen.‘ Christina Bryant is a key contact, with a solid track record in handling disputes up to Supreme Court level; Glen Holm-Hansen combines insolvency, regulatory and litigation expertise. Additionally, Gillies works alongside Helen Macfarlane to assist clients with construction and consultancy contracts. On the real estate side. Robert Berry is well known for advising on ground leases; he jointly heads the group with Brian Coburn, who acts for international high-net-worth individuals. Jacintha Tan, Barret Blaylock, and Sarah Holderness are names to note.Practice head(s):
Nick Gillies; Robert Berry; Brian Coburn
Other key lawyers:
Christina Bryant; Glen Holm-Hansen; Helen McFarlane; Jacintha Tan; Barret Blaylock; Sarah Holderness
Testimonials
‘Their approach to appointing experts is excellent. The team are open to suggestions, and they recognise the value in finding the answer to the question rather than manufacturing a value for strategic positioning.‘
‘Nick is a considered and diligent lawyer. He is open to suggestions and is willing to pivot the approach without the rigidity that is commonplace in the legal industry. The overriding strength Nick holds is his knowledge of construction. To my mind, this places him and his practice front and centre in the NZ market for complex construction disputes.‘
‘The partners and associates all understand practically what’s involved in the Construction & Civil Works industries. It’s vital to have professionals who can understand the nuances of these industries, particularly so when cases become adversarial.’
‘Specialist construction knowledge from the contractor’s perspective.‘
‘Nick Gillies is approachable, helpful, has excellent industry knowledge and gives pertinent advice. Glen Holm-Hansen is hard working with excellent industry knowledge and measured advice.‘
‘Hesketh Henry is a stand out in the New Zealand market for its construction litigation practice. The team is a devastating combination of clever practitioners who know the law inside out, aligned with practical and commercially robust thinkers who devise clear and effective strategies for their clients.‘
‘Nick Gillies is an outstanding construction litigator. He combines excellent technical skills with strong commercial acumen. He is also terrific to work with and has a first rate knowledge of the construction market.‘
‘The construction team at Hesketh Henry punches above its weight. It is truly client-focused and easy to work with.’
Key clients
McConnell Dowell
Fulton Hogan
Naylor Love
SRG Global
WSP
Norman Disney & Young
AECOM
Gensler
Russell Group
Form Building & Developments
CMP Construction
Mainmark Ground Engineering
MAXRaft
Steelcraft Engineering
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 Limited
Speldhurst Country Estate Limited
Richmond Villas Limited
Wellington Investment Group Limited
Work highlights
- Representing a New Zealand subsidiary of the SRG Global Group in a procedurally complex, high-value dispute going to the Supreme Court.
- Acted for Norman Disney & Young in a case involving multiple defendants, concerning responsibility for an allegedly defective hot water system in a new private hospital.
- Defending WSP in proceedings brought by a developer concerning a new commercial CBD building.
New Zealand > Transport (rail, road, air and sea) Tier 2
Clients of Hesketh Henry's transport practice include shipyards, shipbrokers, logistics companies, port agents, marine insurers and P&I clubs, in addition to vessel, yacht and pleasure craft owners and operators. The team is headed by Simon Cartwright, who notably advises on English law contracts, and is adept handling a broad variety of disputes, examples of which include build and repairs, vessel arrests, and claims relating to cargo, collisions and shipbuilding. Alan Sherlock is likewise well-versed in marine insurance matters, whilst associate Colin Hunter is praised for his ‘excellent interpersonal skills’.Practice head(s):
Simon Cartwright
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Hesketh Henry provide a full schedule of marine legal services, and does so on a level that puts the client at ease without overwhelming them with legal concepts and intricacies. The interaction leaves the client feeling they are dealing with someone who understands and cares about the client’s business.’
‘Both Simon Cartwright and Colin Hunter have excellent interpersonal skills, timely comms, availability, and provide quality advice formed of a good blend of legal and commercial considerations.’
‘Practical advice with good understanding of international law and practice.’
‘Hesketh Henry is a leader in the transport law practices with a great understanding not only of the full supply chain but the commercial realities and needs of potential clients.’
‘Simon Cartwright is an incredibly knowledgeable professional but most importantly, very easy to engage with, using plain language and personable advice.’
‘Good personal service and knowledge of our industry.’
‘Excellent shipping lawyers, very responsive and always provide useful advice.’
‘Simon Cartwright – very knowledgeable, responsive and great to deal with.’
Key clients
Charterers P & I Club
Maritime Mutual Insurance Association (NZ) Limited
Vero Marine
Work highlights
- Successfully obtained a permanent anti-suit injunction on behalf of Maritime Mutual Insurance Association (NZ) Ltd in respect of a certain vessel, understood to be the first successful anti-suit injunction in New Zealand to enforce an arbitration agreement.
New Zealand > Corporate and M&A Tier 3
Operating across a myriad of sectors and industries, the corporate team at Hesketh Henry is steered by Kate Telford who regularly advises on joint ventures, shareholder agreements, manufacturing agreements, distribution agreements, and financing transactions. Praised for his ability to ‘find solutions and excellent compromises’, Erich Bachmann is regularly instructed by local and international clients, particularly investors from Germany and other German-speaking countries. Julika Wahlmann-Smith was promoted to partner in January 2023.Practice head(s):
Kate Telford
Other key lawyers:
Erich Bachmann; Julika Wahlmann-Smith; Ben Hickson
Testimonials
‘The team is a pragmatic advisor with a strong sense for people and situations, which is key for successful transactions in our industry.’
‘Strong legal know-how and transaction documents management are prerequisites, but what really sets legal advisors apart is the ability to judge situations and come forward with pragmatic and solutions-orientated solutions. HH shined here and we have already mandated HH for further transactions.’
‘Erich Bachmann – Seniority and ability to find solutions and excellent compromises during negotiations.’
‘We have worked with Eric Bachmann and Ben Hickson. They are a great team and punch well beyond their reputation. We enjoy working with them, and the client has now specifically worked with them directly on the basis of our referral.’
‘Ben is always available, solicitous and a good lawyer.’
‘Eric is very experienced, and a totally safe pair of hands.’
Key clients
Altus NZ Ltd
AECOM New Zealand Ltd
BW Group
China Animal Husbandry Group
Compagnie Française d’Assurance pour le Commerce Extérieur
Dominion Constructors Ltd
Independent Timber Merchants Co-operative Ltd
InterMed Medical Ltd
Jennian Homes Ltd
Juken New Zealand Ltd
Altano Gruppe GmbH
Vestner Aufzuge GmbH and subsidiaries
Work highlights
- Advised Blake Company Ltd and Adam Chisnall in relation to the sale of their shareholding in The Lending People, an online brokering company, to Motor Trade Finance Ltd, an NZDX listed company.
- Assisted XPO Exhibitions Ltd with the acquisition of the New Zealand Boat Show.
- Acted for Altano Gruppe (Germany) in relation to its acquisition of three leading equine veterinary clinics in New Zealand.
New Zealand > Dispute resolution Tier 3
Hesketh Henry is well-placed to advise its diverse portfolio of clients on contentious matters in targeted industries, including construction, insurance, employment, trade and transport, and property. The practice is jointly steered by Auckland-based partners Alison Maelzer and Glen Holm-Hansen. Maelzer provides expert advice in all aspects of employment law, with a particular interest in disciplinary issues, while Holm-Hansen has in-depth experience in complex construction litigation. The team has been strengthened by the arrival of senior associate Ariana Stuart who joined from Dentons New Zealand in February 2023.Practice head(s):
Alison Maelzer; Glen Holm-Hansen
Other key lawyers:
Christina Bryant; Nick Gillies; Helen Macfarlane; Ariana Stuart
Testimonials
‘The team, collectively, has a comprehensive understanding of the law, which is evident through their abilities to analyse and interpret complex legal issues and achieve favourable outcomes for their clients.’
‘The team excels in their communication skills, whether that is presenting compelling arguments to resolve disputes or explaining complex legal issues in an accessible manner.’
‘Nick Gillies has worked closely with us on several complex construction disputes and, in each case, demonstrated a deep understanding of the legal issues and the challenging environment in which our business operates.
‘What sets Nick Gillies apart is his proactive approach to managing expectations and his ability to communicate in a clear and concise manner.’
Key clients
Vero Insurance
Juken New Zealand Ltd
AECOM
Fulton Hogan
Charterers P&I Club
Form Building & Developments
The General Trust Board of the Diocese of Auckland
Russell Group
Savvy Vineyards Group
McConnell Dowell
XPO Exhibitions Ltd
Vestner NZ Ltd and Vestner Aufzuege GmbH
Gensler
Work highlights
- Represented XPO Exhibitions (New Zealand’s largest exhibition organising company) in successfully obtaining High Court relief in a high-profile matter concerning the well-known Auckland Showgrounds, allowing events and exhibitions to continue there.
- Representing a New Zealand subsidiary of the SRG Global Group in a procedurally complex, high-value dispute involving every strata of the New Zealand Court system going up to the Supreme Court.
- Acted for Maritime Mutual Insurance Association (NZ) Ltd in successfully obtaining a permanent anti-suit injunction in respect of a certain vessel, understood to be the first successful anti-suit injunction in New Zealand to enforce an arbitration agreement.
Hesketh Henry > Firm Profile
Hesketh Henry is a premium sector specialist law firm with the experience to meet the needs of both domestic and international clients, including those wanting to invest in New Zealand.
The firm’s strong reputation is based on providing pragmatic and high quality services to loyal clients over many years. Hesketh Henry is based in the Auckland CBD and traces its roots in the city back to 1865.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Aviation | Robert Berry | Robert.berry@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Aviation | Simon Cartwright | simon.cartwright@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Commercial Law | Erich Bachmann | erich.bachmann@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Commercial Law | Kate Telford | kate.telford@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Commercial Law | Julika Wahlmann-Smith | julika.wahlmann-smith@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Commercial Property | Robert Berry | Robert.berry@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Commercial Property | Brian Coburn | brian.coburn@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Commercial Property | Jacintha Tan | jacintha.tan@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Corporate Advisory | Kate Telford | Kate.telford@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Corporate Advisory | Erich Bachmann | erich.bachmann@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Corporate Advisory | Julika Wahlmann-Smith | julika.wahlmann-smith@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Construction | Nick Gillies | nick.gillies@heskethherny.co.nz | |
Construction | Christina Bryant | christina.bryant@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Construction | Helen Macfarlane | helen.macfarlane@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Construction | Glen Holm-Hansen | glen.holm-hansen@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Employment | Jim Roberts | jim.roberts@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Employment | Alison Maelzer | alison.maelzer@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Employment | Jodi Sharman | jodi.sharman@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Foreign Investment | Erich Bachmann | erich.bachmann@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Foreign Investment | Emma Tonkin | emma.tonkin@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Foreign Investment | Julika Wahlmann-Smith | julika.wahlmann-smith@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Health and Safety | Alison Maelzer | alison.maelzer@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Information Technology | Kate Telford | Kate.telford@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Information Technology | Julika Wahlmann-Smith | julika.wahlmann-smith@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Intellectual Property | Julika Wahlmann-Smith | julika.wahlmann-smith@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Insolvency and Restructuring | Glen Holm-Hansen | glen.holm-hansen@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Insolvency and Restructuring | Robert Berry | Robert.berry@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Insurance | Alan Sherlock | alan.sherlock@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Insurance | Helen Macfarlane | helen.macfarlane@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Insurance | Stephanie Corban | stephanie.corban@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Insurance | Christina Bryant | christina.bryant@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Insurance | Simon Cartwright | simon.cartwright@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Insurance | Gennise Leun | gennise.luen@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Litigation and Dispute Resolution | Christina Bryant | christina.bryant@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Litigation and Dispute Resolution | Nick Gillies | nick.gillies@heskethherny.co.nz | |
Litigation and Dispute Resolution | Simon Cartwright | simon.cartwright@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Litigation and Dispute Resolution | Helen Macfarlane | helen.macfarlane@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Litigation and Dispute Resolution | Glen Holm-Hansen | glen.holm-hansen@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Litigation and Dispute Resolution | Gennise Luen | gennise.luen@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Litigation and Dispute Resolution | Alan Sherlock | alan.sherlock@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Maritime | Simon Cartwright | simon.cartwright@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Maritime | Alan Sherlock | alan.sherlcok@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Mergers and acquisitions | Erich Bachmann | erich.bachmann@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Mergers and acquisitions | Kate Telford | Kate.telford@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Mergers and acquisitions | Julika Wahlmann-Smith | julika.wahlmann-smith@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Private Wealth | Mary Joy Simpson | maryjoy.simpon@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Private Wealth | Emma Tonkin | emma.tonkin@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Private Wealth | John Kirkwood | john.kirkwood@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Property | Brian Coburn | brian.coburn@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Property | Robert Berry | Robert.berry@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Property | Jacintha Tan | jacintha.tan@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Rest homes and Retirement Villages | Brian Coburn | brian.coburn@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Trade and transport | Simon Cartwright | simon.cartwright@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Wills and Estates | John Kirkwood | john.kirkwood@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Wills and Estates | Emma Tonkin | emma.tonkin@heskethhenry.co.nz | |
Wills and Estates | Mary Joy Simpson | maryjoy.simpon@heskethhenry.co.nz |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Mr Erich Bachmann | Erich is a senior partner of the firm and heads the Business… | View Profile | |
Mr Robert Berry | Robert is a Partner in the Commercial Property team at Hesketh Henry. … | View Profile | |
Mrs Christina Bryant | Christina is the Managing Partner of Hesketh Henry and practises in the… | View Profile | |
Mr Simon Cartwright | Simon is a partner at Hesketh Henry and is a transport and… | View Profile | |
Mr Brian Coburn | Brian is a Partner in the Commercial Property team and specialises in… | View Profile | |
Mrs Stephanie Corban | Stephanie is a Special Counsel in the disputes team, with a particular… | View Profile | |
Mr Nick Gillies | Nick is a partner in the Disputes Team, and is a specialist… | View Profile | |
Mr John Kirkwood | John Kirkwood is a partner in Hesketh Henry’s Private Wealth Team | View Profile | |
Ms Helen Macfarlane | Helen is a partner in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution team. She… | View Profile | |
Mrs Alison Maelzer | Alison is a Partner at Hesketh Henry. She specialises in employment… | View Profile | |
Mr Jim Roberts | Jim is a Partner at Hesketh Henry. Jim specialised in Employment law. | View Profile | |
Mrs Jodi Sharman | Jodi is a Partner in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Team and… | View Profile | |
Mr Alan Sherlock | Alan has a special interest and expertise in both insurance and maritime… | View Profile | |
Mrs Jacintha Tan | Jacintha is a Partner in Hesketh Henry’s Property Team. | View Profile | |
Ms Kate Telford | Kate is a Partner in the Business Advice team. | View Profile | |
Mrs Julika Wahlmann-Smith | Julika is a Partner in the Business Advice team. | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 49Languages
English German Spanish FrenchMemberships
ADVOC Lawlink NZGCC(German-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Inc.) GALA IPBA (International Pacific Bar Association)Other
Contacts : Kerry Browne (general manager kerry.browne@heskethhenry.co.nz) Contacts : Christina Bryant (managing partner christina.bryant@heskethhenry.co.nz)Client Testimonials
CLIENT: Tim Clark
COMPANY/FIRM: Webscope Ltd
TESTIMONIAL: Chris recently assisted us with the negotiation of IP/IT agreements for two large and complex projects in which we were developing: a market leading robo-advice platform for a global financial institution; and a paper-less meeting system for one of NZ’s largest local councils. Our customers were advised by IP/IT experts from some of New Zealand’s leading firms. Chris protected our interests whilst also finding pragmatic and reasonable solutions which enabled the deals to be done. Chris has previously represented us in a dispute when a director /shareholder left the business where his advice to us as directors and shareholders was invaluable. I highly recommend his support for commercial agreements, corporate advice and M&A transactions.
Client testimonials
CLIENT: Andrea O’Brien
COMPANY/FIRM: Northpower Limited
TESTIMONIAL: We have utilised the services of the Hesketh Henry Employment team for many years now and find their approach, knowledge and professional support beyond reproach. The team have a very good understanding of our culture and business and therefore we feel very comfortable with them representing us and work is always turned, which to us is very important when dealing with employment issues. Most recently they have supported us as we navigate our way through employment law and a pandemic, incredibly helpful and insightful with information and advice.
The team are all very approachable and it’s a pleasure doing work with them. We have no issue recommending Jim, Alison and team.
CLIENT: Juan (Floyd) du Plessis
COMPANY/FIRM: Corrections Association of New Zealand TESTIMONIAL: The Corrections Association of NZ have been using Hesketh Henry for their legal advice and representation for the last 12 years. Over that time, they have proven to be an invaluable resource and support for our 3,500 plus members, providing advice on a range of employment related matters, from restructures, health and safety matters, CEA negotiation advice to Employment Authority and Court cases. They have provided us with sound, professional and timely advice in a manner that is easily understood.
During the COVID-19 pandemic and mandatory vaccination orders that came as part of that, the research, work, and advice to the union from Hesketh Henry was exemplary and has enabled us to properly engage with the NZ Department of Corrections, as the employer, as well as respond to questions from our members.
CLIENT: Catherine Dixon
COMPANY/FIRM: Suncorp Group New Zealand Limited TESTIMONIAL: We have strong and trusted relationships with the HH employment team. They provide high quality advice even when we are under time pressure and the level of guidance provided is appropriate to the situation because they understand our risk appetite and the culture of our business well. This is further enabled by a regular and exceptionally helpful rhythm of engagement which provides an overview of open engagements and allows discussion on emerging workforce considerations and the legislative climate. Further value is created from HH hosting regular (free) seminars on case law and emerging trends that are open to all members of the team to attend.
CLIENT: Chris Wright
COMPANY/FIRM: Baker Tilly Staples Rodway Auckland Limited TESTIMONIAL: It is a pleasure to work with Jim, Alison and the Hesketh Henry Employment Team. What sets them apart is the legal rigour they apply to any situation along with the commercially pragmatic advice they provide. Their assistance with a range of legal issues for ourselves and our clients has been great appreciated and their informative legal webinars keep us on to date on all the important topics. Having worked with them for over 6 years I have confidence in their knowledge and judgement.
CLIENT: Marisa Bidois
COMPANY/FIRM: Restaurant Association
TESTIMONIAL: We have been working with the team at Hesketh Henry for more then 20 years, particularly the Employment Law team lead by Jim Roberts. Over this time, Jim and the team have consistently exceeded our expectations in terms the quality of advice but also the care taken with all our matters. The experience and expertise in the team is of the highest standard and quality. Over the last eighteen months we have dealt with uncharted waters in terms of challenges businesses have faced, from implementing vaccine mandates to businesses being temporarily closed due to Covid restrictions, you name it our sector has faced it. The team at Hesketh Henry have been there every step of the way to guide and support us through these unprecedented times and I could not have asked for a better team to help us navigate these times and beyond.
CLIENT: Hilary Lyons
COMPANY/FIRM: Suncorp
TESTIMONIAL: Hesketh Henry has a specialist insurance law team who provide valued legal work and support to our business. Their advice is always well considered, thorough and takes into account our commercial interests.
International Capabilities
Hesketh Henry has served domestic and international clients since 1865. We are based in Auckland, the commercial capital of New Zealand.
With 18 partners and 35 other legal professionals, the firm has the scale and depth to handle significant and complex matters.
Hesketh Henry is focused on being specialists in the fields of construction, insurance, property, insolvency, trade & transport, employment, forestry, health & safety, private wealth, regulatory, foreign investment, M&A and corporate and commercial advice.
Hesketh Henry’s memberships and international associations include:
- Many of our lawyers have international experience and are connected to international law firms and organisations. The firm is a member of ADVOC, a leading network of independent law firms in more than 70 countries worldwide. Partner Erich Bachmann is a global board member.
- The firm is also a member of the Global Advertising Lawyers Alliance (GALA), an alliance of lawyers with expertise and experience in advertising, marketing and promotion law representing more than 80 countries throughout the world. Julika Wahlmann-Smith will take up the role of Vice President of the Asia Pacific Region for GALA commencing 1 January 2023.
- The firm is committed to international business through its support of a number of business groups. These include:
- The German-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce, the largest bilateral European Chamber of Commerce in New Zealand. Partner Erich Bachmann is the immediate past-President and a current board member of the organisation. He is also Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Auckland and was awarded the Order of Merit (Bundesverdienstkreuz am Bande) of Germany in September 2018.
- The New Zealand Middle East Business Council. Simon Cartwright is a board member of the Council and currently its Treasurer,
- The ASEAN Business Council of New Zealand, a business council connecting New Zealand businesses with ASEAN trading partners. The point of contact for the ASEAN Business Council is Ben Hickson, Senior Associate who re-joined Hesketh Henry in 2021, having spent 7 years working as a corporate lawyer in South East Asia for international law firms. Ben is experienced in working in emerging markets and on cross border transactions.
- The NZ Fiji Business Council, a membership organization which fosters links between businesses in Fiji and New Zealand..
- The British New Zealand Business Association.
- The American Chamber of Commerce NZ.
The firm acts for a variety of international clients in relation to their investment and business activities in New Zealand. Examples include:
- Hesketh Henry’s corporate team has recently advised international counsel Stephenson Harwood (Singapore) Alliance with respect to New Zealand law aspects of BW Group’s large-scale acquisition of 100% of Hawaiki Submarine Cable and International Connectivity Services (Hawaiki). The transaction closed in 2022. The Hawaiki Submarine Cable is the largest and fastest cross-sectional fibre optic cable between the United States and Oceania (which links 15,000 km between landing stations in Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa, the Pacific Islands, Hawaii and the West Coast of the United States).
- Hesketh Henry’s corporate team worked closely with German law firm CMS Hasche Sigle on the sale of the shares in German company Neuseelandhaus GmbH to New Zealand/Malaysian owned Manuka Health New Zealand Limited.
- The firm also acted for Germany’s largest testing organisation in the automotive sector in the acquisition of a majority stake in New Zealand’s leading automotive testing service provider.
- Advising a German company and its New Zealand subsidiaries in relation to the acquisition of several businesses providing access solutions for commercial, public and residential properties.
- Acting for Amalgamated Telecom Holdings Limited (ATH) in relation to its listing on the South Pacific Stock Exchange (Fiji), the subsequent deregulation of the telecommunications sector in Fiji facilitated by World Bank appointed legal mediators and the Government of the Republic of the Fiji Islands, and the acquisition of the shares held by Cable & Wireless (UK) in FINTEL Limited.
- Advising a New Zealand entity on its merger with the infrastructure arm of a large Fijian entity (holding diversified interests across the Pacific Islands).
- Advising and preparing tender documents for Hyundai – Rotem in relation to subcontracting the maintenance service of Wellington’s railroad.
- Assisting a Korean investor on the development of a major film studio in Auckland in conjunction with ATEED (Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development) which is now attracting multiple Hollywood film makers.
- Advising China Animal Husbandry Group (a Chinese state-owned enterprise) in relation to the partial disposal of its interest in dairy nutrition processing company Mataura Valley Milk Limited to dual
ASX/NZX listed company A2 Milk. - Advising the New Zealand subsidiary of Tokyo Stock Exchange listed company Wood One Co., Ltd in relation to its extensive forestry and timber processing operations in New Zealand including Overseas Investment Office regulatory consents.
- Advising the shareholders of Soft Tech (NZ) Limited in relation to the sale of their shares in the company to Norwegian company Compusoft AS which is part of Compusoft Group (owned by leading globally private equity firm).
- Working with several other corporate clients from Australia, the United States of America and the United Kingdom in relation to their commercial activities in New Zealand.
Comparative Guides
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New Zealand: Construction
Published: May 2024
Authors: Glen Holm-HansenHelen MacfarlaneSarah HoldernessJames Lewis
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Construction laws and regulations applicable in New Zealand.
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New Zealand: Employment and Labour Law
Published: March 2024
Authors: Alison MaelzerJim RobertsJodi Sharman
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Employment and Labour laws and regulations applicable in New Zealand.
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New Zealand: Investing In
Published: January 2024
Authors: Kate Telford Erich Bachmann Brooke Taylor
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Investing In laws and regulations applicable in New Zealand.