Real estate and construction

Dentons New Zealand

Client Satisfaction

Home to experts in infrastructure projects, leasing, and property developments, Dentons New Zealand handles construction contracts surrounding transport projects. Michelle Hill leads the firm’s real estate team from Auckland, and is vastly experienced in property acquisitions, disposals, and subdivisions, while Matthew Ockleston is knowledgeable of property financing. Ish Fraser is well-versed in industrial, office, and retail leasing, while Stuart Robertson, who leads the firm’s construction practice is proficient in infrastructure matters. Paul Buetow is well-regarded in the energy, transport, and water sectors.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The Dentons property team, in our view, is the pre-eminent public works act (land acquisition & disposals) practice in New Zealand.'
'They are highly competent across a spectrum of land acquisition requirements on most if not all roading project requirements across NZ.'
'They are the "go-to" firm and their public works proficiency is where they truly shine. Their advice is second to none.’
‘This team is unique in the sense that they are regarded in the market as the 'law firm for contractors' as opposed to principal side clients.’
‘Great collaboration and depth.'
‘It is quite likely that no one in NZ has more public works act knowledge or experience than Matthew Ockleston.'
'Matthew Ockleston always provides timely, considerate, and knowledgeable advice. He delivers his advice calmly and methodically which ensures good results time and again.’

Key clients

Civil Construction Limited
Masterbuild Services Limited/Registered Master Builders Association of New Zealand
Aurecon New Zealand
P2W Services Limited
Hawkins New Zealand
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency
Ministry of Social Development
Grand Complex Properties Limited
Universal Homes Limited
Ministry of Justice
AMP Services (NZ) Limited
HSBC
Bridgestone New Zealand Ltd
George Weston Foods
Pro-Invest Group
Tāmaki Regeneration Limited
PMG Capital Fund
Radisson Hotel Group
Oji Fibre Solutions
Danone Nutricia
KiwiRail
TSB Bank Ltd

Work highlights

Advising Hawkins / Downer New Zealand on its successful application for an interim injunction against Elizabeth Properties Limited in relation to the call on a performance bond for a $250m redevelopment project in Tauranga.
Acted on Court proceeding for Civil Construction in High Court proceedings dealing with novel issues under the NZS3910 standard.
Advised P2W Services Ltd on the Puhoi to Warkworth Project, one of the seven PPPs that have been carried out in New Zealand to date.