Competition/Antitrust

A&B Competition Lawyers is highly regarded for its expertise across the whole competition and antitrust sphere, including merger approvals, abuse of market power investigations and Commerce Commission market studies. The firm has also advised government departments on reforms to New Zealand's competition laws and has particular experience handling contentious matters. It counts among its client base both domestic and multinational companies, such as Oceanbridge Shipping, Fletcher Distribution and Kinetic Group.

"AB Competition Lawyers are going to be the ones to watch in New Zealand competition law. They have grown it from the ground up."

A&B Competition Lawyers represented Fletcher Distribution in securing clearance to acquire a rival building products retailer.

David Blacktop in Auckland offers particularly rich experience of the competition scene, having previously worked as a principal counsel at the Commerce Commission, where he not only advised on both merger control and investigatory mandates but was also involved in the drafting of official guidelines on merger clearance and competitor collaboration. "David is a strong advocate. He is very wise and a measured person. When something is not right he tells you. There is high accuracy and pleasantness in his work."

Neil Anderson in Wellington commands a high level of respect among market sources as one of New Zealand's most accomplished and experienced competition lawyers, equally at home whether acting on challenging merger clearance mandates or in defence of enforcement proceedings. He acts for both domestic and international clients and is particularly familiar with the impact of competition issues on the real estate, energy and resources, financial services, and transport and communications infrastructure sectors. "Neil is our trusted competition lawyer, and we are super appreciative of his guidance to matters."