With individuals ‘renowned for their deep expertise and specialisation in their respective field’, MinterEllisonRuddWatts advises on the gamut of employment advice, including litigation, disciplinary procedures, health and safety, industrial relations, whistleblowers and executive exits. The firm is also well-versed in providing advise on the ongoing regulatory and legislative changes being brought in. Gillian Service, a specialist in industrial relations and collective bargaining, and Megan Richards, who regularly advises public bodies, lead the team. June Hardacre assists banks and investment firms on their employment agreements, policies and share schemes. Emma Warden is another noted member of the team.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The individuals in this practice are renowned for their deep expertise and specialization in their respective fields. Their ability to stay ahead of industry trends and regulations ensures that clients receive the most current and relevant advice.'
  • ‘The practice stands out due to its client-centric approach, which combines deep industry knowledge with a commitment to personalized service. The practice prioritizes understanding each client's unique needs and goals, tailoring solutions accordingly.'
  • ‘Gillian Service is a commercially pragmatic lawyer, giving tailored advice and options, enabling the business to make an informed decision on the best way forward with key legal considerations in mind.’ 
  • ‘The employment law team has strong, technical, expertise and is a great option for complex/strategic advice.'
  • ‘The team understand the school environment with knowledge of the Education and Training Act and various collective agreements.’
  • ‘The team have always been very frank and honest on our situation and likely impacts but also pragmatic on the options and avenues open to us.’

Key clients

  • Uber
  • Warner Brothers Discovery Inc
  • Auckland District Health Board
  • IBM No Johnson & Johnson
  • Z Energy
  • Qantas Group
  • Aon Insurance
  • Colliers International
  • The Warehouse Group

Work highlights

  • Advised Entain on its entry into the New Zealand market through a NZD1 billion deal with TAB NZ.
  • Advising TVNZ, New Zealand’s national broadcaster, on urgent compliance proceedings in the Employment Relations Authority and on appeal to the Employment Court in response to a significant restructure.
  • Acting for Rabobank on regulatory and employment-law matters, including implementing a new policy approach for claims management in New Zealand.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
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 associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
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.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Gillian Service, Megan Richards

Other key lawyers

June Hardacre, Emma Warden