Public Law

Dentons has one of New Zealand’s leading public law practices, with a core team specialising exclusively in public and administrative law. We are trusted advisers to government ministries, Crown entities, regulators, local authorities, and private sector clients navigating regulatory and policy challenges.

Our team provides expert advice on judicial review, statutory interpretation, regulatory disputes, public inquiries, investigations, and matters involving legal, political, and reputational risk. We regularly act in proceedings under the Official Information Act, the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act, and the Privacy Act, including appeals to oversight bodies.

We are frequently engaged for strategic advice, governance support, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance. Our lawyers assist public bodies and private organisations in navigating the complex interface of law, policy, and public accountability.

We have deep experience advising councils and council-controlled organisations on governance, consultation, funding, and Treaty of Waitangi obligations. We also support clients with policy development, crisis response, and government engagement across a range of sectors.