Dentons New Zealand is particularly proficient in representing private sector clients, though is likewise well-regarded by aviation, technology, retail, and creative industry clients. Dual qualified in both the UK and New Zealand, James Warren sits at helm the department and is active on whistleblowing, employee relations, compliance, and fraud matters, in addition to the employment aspects of corporate transactions and insolvency; he is based in Auckland where Charlotte Parkhill leverages in-depth knowledge of the Holidays and Human Rights Acts. In Wellington, Renee Butler is a 2022 partner who is already leading a high-end caseload.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The team provides pragmatic, timely advice, and is not afraid to test their thinking rather than adhere blindly to a predetermined strategy for resolving a matter.’
‘We rely on Greg Cain's understanding of our business and risk appetite, and ability to set out the options and advice in a way that laypeople can readily understand, particularly as we navigate an area of the law in a dispute resolution context we've not had a lot of exposure to previously.'
‘James Warren is truly an exceptional partner to work with. Not only is he responsive, but he adapts to meet our requirements. He also demonstrates a willingness to know more about our industry and business environment, which is invaluable.'
‘Greg Cain is very responsive, and I believe provides advice taking account of how we operate; that is, he understands our organisation in terms of the advice he provides.’
‘The team works well together. They are very available and personable with consistency of support and approach.’
‘Team members are quick to respond and breadth of expertise broad.’
‘Thorough and bespoke advice for many and varied requests for advice.’
‘They are very responsive, provide pragmatic advice, and good to work with.’

Key clients

Airways Corporation of New Zealand
Auckland Transport
CBRE
Cognizant
CPB Contractors
Danone Nutricia
Department of Corrections
Downer
George Weston Foods
Greater Wellington Regional Council
Hastings District Council
Inland Revenue Department
James Hardie
JH Whittaker & Sons Ltd
Maritime New Zealand
Ministry for the Environment
Michael Hill International
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Ministry of Transport
New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
PanPac Forest Products Ltd
The Parliamentary Service
Royal New Zealand Ballet
Sephora
Serco New Zealand Limited
The Health Research Council of New Zealand
The New Zealand Automobile Association
The Order of St John
Tourism New Zealand
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency
WorkSafe NZ
WSP New Zealand

Work highlights

Representing the Department of Corrections in a long-running and high-profile case, where an employee is claiming NZ$1m in damages in connection with mental and physical injuries she suffered during a one of New Zealand’s worst prison riots.
Acted for CBRE in relation to employment aspects arising from a major transaction involving the purchase of New Zealand’s largest valuation company, TelferYoung.
Representing WorkSafe NZ in a major employment claim by a former employee who was made redundant.