The team at MinterEllisonRuddWatts is noted for its prowess in employee relations, health and safety, industrial laws and employee privacy, among other matters. The practice is co-led by Gillian Service, an Auckland-based expert in industries such as transport, oil and gas, retail and financial services, alongside Megan Richards who works from Wellington and is a key port of call for government departments and crown entities. The Auckland office is also home to June Hardacre, a go-to for banks and investment firms, as well as special counsel Emma Warden who acts on both contentious and non-contentious mandates.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The employment team are well versed in all employment and health and safety matters, from board presentations to one-on-one advice at management level.’
‘Gillian Service and June Hardacre provide an excellent service. Always available and get back in touch shortly after.’
‘I cannot rate Gillian Service more highly. She offers measured, pragmatic and commercial advice, and provides her clients with excellent support and is engaging.’
‘The team is approachable and responsive to urgent matters. They develop a respectful and collegial working relationship.’

Key clients

Uber
Warner Brothers Discovery Inc
Auckland District Health Board
IBM
Johnson & Johnson
Fonterra Co-Operative Group
IAG New Zealand Limited
Aon Insurance
Colliers International
The Warehouse Group

Work highlights

Advised Raiser New Zealand Limited (Uber) in its litigation with four Uber drivers, in their application to be recognised as employees.
Advised Electrix to provide strategic guidance and support on employee conduct issues.
Advise Metlifecare’s executive leadership and human resources teams on ongoing day-to-day employment, industrial relations, and crisis management advice. Recently, the team assisted Metlifecare with the acquisition of six retirement villages across New Zealand’s North Island.

Lawyers

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