Dispute Resolution: The Bar

Thorndon Chambers is an established Wellington set whose 21 barristers collectively cover a broad spectrum of public, commercial and international issues, appearing not only in proceedings before New Zealand courts and tribunals, but also in cross-border arbitrations and in high-profile official inquiries. Interviewees observe that "the chambers has a number of leading silks and very capable juniors with experience from leading national and international firms," offering in particular "excellent public law and insolvency expertise." Manager Lynn Jamieson is a key contact.

Jack Hodder KC is one of New Zealand's most respected litigators and a veteran of over 600 superior court cases, including regulatory and constitutional as well as commercial issues. He has also appeared frequently as an arbitration counsel. "Jack is one of the most meticulous practitioners at the Bar both in understanding of issues and advocacy of the same."

Andrew Butler KC is praised for his expertise across complex public law, equity and trusts disputes. He also has a notable track record advising on real estate and commercial disputes. "Andrew Butler is very intelligent and is a subject matter expert in a number of fields. Andrew is very strategic and an incredible advocate."

Robert Kirkness boasts an impressive practice across commercial and public disputes. He has carved out a particular expertise in representing clients in international arbitration and class action claims. "Robert is very smart and strategic and always keeps client service at the forefront. He is generous with his time and supportive of staff and junior barristers."

Rachel Pinny is an experienced commercial litigator with over 20 years' experience. She is particularly noted for her expertise in finance litigation and insolvency, taking notable insolvency matters in the market. "Rachel hashuge depth of knowledge around insolvency, which is special in the Bar. She is unusually good with finance, and fact and number crunching."

Sebastian Bisley is an experienced litigator with over 20 years' experience. He is particularly noted for his expertise in insolvency and his commercial and pragmatic advice. "Seb is a great strategist and a superb advocate; he is great with clients. It is a real pleasure to work with him."

Victoria Heine KC is an experienced litigator and a highly respected advocate of nearly 30 years' standing who acts across a varied range of contractual, equity and infrastructure-related issues for both public and private sector entities, and for individual litigants. "Victoria is tremendously clever and has a good strategic approach. Another thing is that she does not shy away from difficult cases and explains the risks to the client."

Daniel Kalderimis KC brings to the table extensive superior court litigation experience, much of it acquired while serving as a senior partner at a leading New Zealand law firm. He is also noted for combining a broad commercial capability with focused strengths in such areas as climate change, insolvency and sports law, and with a particularly deep acquaintanceship with the international arbitration scene. "Daniel was excellent across the board. He digested complex information at great speed and invariably zeroed in on the issues that actually mattered. He is an exceptional advocate."