Simpson Grierson, Energy & Natural Resources | Chambers Asia-Pacific Profile

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

Environment & Resource Management - New Zealand

Band 1

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.

View ranking table

Work Highlights

Provided by Simpson Grierson

Simpson Grierson assisted Reefton Gold with New Zealand due diligence and regulatory consents for its acquisition of First Uranium Resources from shareholders in a reverse merger transaction.
Simpson Grierson represented Auckland Transport and the Eastern Busway Alliance on resource consent applications, notices of requirement and land acquisition for the development of the Eastern Busway Project, an NZD1.4 billion infrastructure project connecting Botany, Pakuranga and surrounding suburbs to the rail network in Panmure.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Simpson Grierson have given good quotes with good detail about work to be done. If costs are to increase, we are kept well informed and we receive good value for money from the team.

Environment & Resource Management respondent
Asia-Pacific

Simpson Grierson always bring the right mix and level of experience or skill to the task in hand.

Environment & Resource Management respondent
Asia-Pacific

Simpson Grierson have given good quotes with good detail about work to be done. If costs are to increase, we are kept well informed and we receive good value for money from the team.

Environment & Resource Management respondent
Asia-Pacific

Simpson Grierson always bring the right mix and level of experience or skill to the task in hand.

Environment & Resource Management respondent
Asia-Pacific

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

Bill Loutit

Band 2

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.

View Profile

Matthew Conway

Band 3

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.

Matt very quietly gets people onside and can understand and work through very difficult issues to achieve good solutions.

Matt is very responsive to questions posed and provides succinct advice in a timely manner.

View Profile