With a strength in aviation and shipping matters, Russell McVeagh advises airport and port operators as well as rail and road providers. The firm’s experience includes Civil Aviation Act advice, regulatory support, and PPP project assistance. The team is led by Daniel Minhinnick, who advises on environmental and planning matters, and Mei-Fern Johnson, an expert in infrastructure investment. Allison Arthur-Young is well-versed in matters relating to environmental protection and natural resources, and Simon Pilkinton handles statutory approvals and redevelopments. Craig Shrive specialises in aviation regulation, while Tim Clarke advises international corporates and government departments on their water and aviation issues.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Ideal balance between generalist and specialist capabilities allows for great relationship management backed by deep subject matter expertise.’

  • ‘Breadth and depth of expertise with an outstanding ability to think adaptively.'

  • 'Mei Fern Johnson is particularly strong.’

Key clients

  • KiwiRail Holdings Limited
  • Auckland International Airport Limited
  • Nelson Airport Limited
  • Ports of Auckland
  • Waste Management New Zealand
  • Stevenson Group
  • Hutt City Council
  • New Zealand Airports Association

Work highlights

  • Advised Auckland Airport on upgrades and changes to its transport network following approval for a longer second runway at Auckland Airport.
  • Advised KiwiRail on a new intermodal freight hub near Palmerston North.
  • Advised Ports of Auckland on its proposal to deepen part of the Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto Channel over 35 years with the staged removal and relocation of up to 2.5 million m3 of material.

Lawyers

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.

Daniel Minhinnick, Mei Fern Johnson

Other key lawyers

Allison Arthur-Young, Simon Pilkinton, Craig Shrive, Tim Clarke