Overview
In recent years, New Zealand business has been subject to an increasing amount of regulation, from the overhaul of the financial markets conduct regime to the introduction of strict new consumer protection laws. More than ever, regulators take an aggressive approach to enforcement, meaning that today's businesses face unprecedented challenges and risks in terms of regulatory compliance.
We believe that knowledge is power when it comes to risk management. Our regulatory and investigations team is expert in helping businesses to understand and meet their compliance obligations. However, we also understand that it's not a perfect world and that from time to time the regulators may come knocking.
In the event of an investigation, we specialise in providing pragmatic and strategic advice at each step of the way. We assist clients in responding to information requests and search warrants, attending interviews, engaging with regulators and achieving the best possible outcome, whether it be a negotiated settlement or defending court proceedings.
The regulators we deal with include the Commerce Commission, Serious Fraud Office, the Financial Markets Authority, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the Department of Internal Affairs and the Environmental Protection Authority as well as specialist industry agencies and bodies.
"Excellent service and pragmatic, relevant and timely advice."
Legal 500
- Best Professional Services Firm (A$50m to $200m) - Australian Financial Review's Client Choice Awards 2019
Work highlights
Acting for Zespri Group
in respect of a large Serious Fraud Office investigation
Acting for Emirates
in Commerce Commission proceedings alleging a worldwide air cargo cartel against various leading international airlines (Commerce Commission v Air New Zealand & Others (2011) 9 NZBLC 103,318)
Acting for Zespri Group and Zespri International
in a claim brought by Turners & Growers alleging breaches of the Commerce Act (Turners & Growers Limited v Zespri Group Limited (2011) 13 TCLR 286)
Acting for Air National
in an investigation by the Civil Aviation Authority into alleged non-compliance with the Civil Aviation Act, culminating in judicial review proceedings
Acting for SKY Television
in relation to an investigation by the Commerce Commission into whether certain of Sky's contracts complied with the Commerce Act
Advising overseas clients
as to successful co-operation strategies in relation to various cartel investigations by the Commerce Commission
Our team
Scott Barker
Partner, Wellington
Scott specialises in litigation and insolvency law. He advises both private and public sector clients.…
- DDI +64 4 498 7349
- M +64 21 822 929
Sherridan Cook
Partner, Auckland
Board of Management
Sherridan specialises in employment, industrial relations and health and safety as well as litigation and dispute resolution…
- DDI +64 9 357 1858
- M +64 27 545 9768
Susan Rowe
Partner, Christchurch
Susan specialises in litigation, local government, insurance, industrial relations and health and safety. Susan currently advises…
- DDI +64 3 371 3517
- M +64 27 537 7784
Susie Kilty
Partner, Wellington
Susie specialises in competition, fair trading, overseas investment consents and economic regulation, particularly of infrastructure…
- DDI +64 4 498 7356
- M +64 21 792 134
Tony Dellow
Partner, Wellington
Tony specialises in competition law and regulatory processes, especially in infrastructure industries. Tony’s practice is unique…
- DDI +64 4 498 7304
- M +64 21 349 651
Willie Palmer
Partner, Christchurch
Willie specialises in commercial litigation including construction, insurance and insolvency law. He has broad experience in…
- DDI +64 3 371 3502
- M +64 21 377 961