Chambers Review
Provided by Chambers
Environment & Resource Management - New Zealand
What the Team is Known For
Buddle Findlay boasts a high-quality resource management practice, with notable strength in both Auckland and Wellington. It is acknowledged for its expertise in the electricity industry and its in-depth knowledge of Māori law. The law firm has a significant presence in the environmental law space, advising clients on large infrastructure projects, particularly within the transport sector, and on national and local government policy development. Buddle Findlay acts on behalf of several regional and district councils, as well as advising companies from the water, power and energy sectors.
Strengths
Buddle Findlay is very receptive and understanding of our business needs. It is proactive in addressing issues to align the approach with our longer-term strategy.
Buddle Findlay's team are market leaders with their depth, knowledge and all-round expertise.
Work Highlights
Buddle Findlay represented New Zealand Steel on its NZD300 million installation of an electric arc furnace, fume treatment plant and ancillary equipment at its steel works in Glenbrook, Auckland.
Buddle Findlay advised Genesis on the reconsenting, using the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024, of its existing Tekapo A and B hydro-electric power stations.
Notable practitioners
Jennifer Caldwell is Buddle Findlay's national chairperson. Based in Auckland, she enjoys a strong reputation for her expertise concerning resource management approvals, planning processes and approvals and related litigation.
Jennifer is an outstanding lawyer and project leader.
In my opinion, Jennifer Caldwell is the leading resource management lawyer in New Zealand.
Paul Beverley is highly regarded for his extensive knowledge of the Resource Management Act. He is also singled out by sources for his impressive expertise in Māori law as well as consenting processes and conservation law.
Paul is a valued and trusted adviser to us. He is always available and flexible when we call on his expertise and his time.
David Allen is recognised for advising local governments on the environmental and resource management aspects of major infrastructure and energy projects.
David is a pragmatic and trusted adviser for us. We greatly value his opinions, strategic directions and advice.
David Randal is well reputed for his specialist knowledge of resource management and regulatory issues and of consent approvals.
Dave is clearly very knowledgeable in his area and has a personable approach. He is very aware of the need to take a whole-of-organisation approach to the resolution of matters.
Vanessa Evitt is recognised for acting for government and private sector clients on the environmental consenting and planning aspects of transport, construction and renewable energy infrastructure projects.
Vanessa is extremely knowledgeable and is always able to provide outcomes that align with our best commercial interests.
Vanessa is a highly experienced and committed adviser.
She provides fabulous client service.