Environmental Law

I have extensive experience across Resource Management, Planning and Environmental Law matters. 

For the last six years, I have been in-house Counsel at a City Council in NZ’s fastest growing city, the last four of which was spent as the head of the Council’s legal department. This saw me deal with a range of high-profile RMA and land development issues. Prior to this, I was in private practice in a large firm, where I acted for a range of infrastructure providers, land developers and local authorities. 

My experience covers all aspects of RMA / Environmental Law with experience as diverse as the Rena grounding, natural resource/mining consents, planning and policy development and all aspects of subdivision and land development.  I have a particular interest in coastal, water and landscape issues, and I am a firm believer in taking a long-term view and establishing robust and favourable policy and rule frameworks for my clients.

My professional background and experience in high-profile cases has given me a unique insight into navigating RMA and Environmental issues, whether acting for applicants, submitters or consent authorities.  I am an effective litigator, but also recognise the importance to my clients of finding mediated solutions to avoid the risk and cost of Court cases.