Department profile
Simpson Grierson

Energy & Natural Resources

Asia-Pacific Guide 2026 : New Zealand

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Simpson Grierson

Rankings

About

Provided by Simpson Grierson

Traditional players are adapting their business models and new local and international entrants are investing heavily, particularly in renewables.

Simpson Grierson has long been regarded as a key legal adviser to the New Zealand energy sector, and we are at the forefront of helping clients navigate the changing landscape. We are heavily involved in the growth of New Zealand’s renewable energy sector, advising on a number of new solar, geothermal and wind generation projects.

We assist clients to develop projects, from financing, planning and consenting to operational and regulatory issues, and to navigate regulatory developments. We have particular expertise in key operational and regulatory areas of the electricity market, such as the Transmission Pricing Methodology, Power Purchase Agreements, and the Electricity Industry Participation Code.

Our ability to build relationships with key stakeholders, including broader community interests, is an important aspect of our service. In particular, our lawyers work closely with our Māori business specialists on engaging with Iwi.

We are also specialist advisers on the Emissions Trading Scheme which is increasingly relevant to power usage and pricing.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Energy & Natural Resources - New Zealand

Band 3

What the Team is Known For

Simpson Grierson maintains a full-service Auckland-based offering with an established reputation in the energy market. It is well regarded for its strength in the area of upstream oil and gas, advising on regulatory and consent applications. The law firm acts on many of the major water and wastewater projects in Auckland, and has a broad range of expertise across all aspects of environmental law. The practice is noted for excellent government work as well as handling projects on behalf of significant private sector clients, and is also able to represent clients in environmental appeals before the Environment Court.

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Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Simpson Grierson advised Oceana Gold on the sale of its US30 million interest in the Snowy River gold mining project in Reefton, New Zealand.

  • Simpson Grierson assisted Fisher & Paykel Healthcare with an application to rezone and build a second campus on land it owns in Drury, South Auckland.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Simpson Grierson is a joy to work with. The firm is incredibly strategic, succinct and clear in its technical advice.

    Energy & Natural Resources respondentAsia-Pacific

  • Simpson Grierson's natural resource management practice stands out due to its in-depth understanding of local government operations and regulatory frameworks.

    Energy & Natural Resources respondentAsia-Pacific

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Bill Loutit
    Bill Loutit

    Bill Loutit

    Bill Loutit is well regarded in the market for his litigation skills within the resource management and environment space. He has a notable track record acting for both developers and local government in disputes concerning large infrastructure projects.

    • Bill Loutit is faultless. I was really impressed by the overall style and quality of his work.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentAsia-Pacific
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  • Matthew Conway
    Matthew Conway

    Matthew Conway

    Matthew Conway is a well-regarded partner at the firm's office in Wellington. He advises regularly on environmental and regulatory matters for both public and private sector clients.

    • He provides an exceptional level of service, backed by deep technical knowledge.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentAsia-Pacific

    • Matthew is a pleasure to work with. He is informative and ready to answer all the questions we have.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentAsia-Pacific
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  • Sarah Scott
    Sarah Scott

    Sarah Scott

    Sarah Scott is a partner in Simpson Grierson's Christchurch office. She focuses on planning and policy matters within the resource management area.

    • Sarah Scott is very focused, experienced and strategic in her approach.

      Energy & Natural Resources respondentAsia-Pacific
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Ranked Individuals at Simpson Grierson (3)

New Zealand

Members

Provided by Simpson Grierson

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