Employment - New Zealand
What the team is known for
Buddle Findlay is highly regarded for its expertise in health and safety matters, including regulatory compliance and defence against WorkSafe prosecutions. The practice's other areas of strength include workplace investigations and disciplinary processes, as well as mediations between union members and employers. Additionally, the firm assists on all the employment aspects of large M&A deals. Some of its notable clients include the New Zealand Customs Service, the Ministry of Social Development and Boeing.
Strengths
"Each case referred to Buddle Findlay is complex and challenging, with many having issues, and they provide timely and effective solutions that are appropriate for each case or situation."
"Buddle Findlay has a very well-qualified and experienced team. They handle matters professionally, respectfully and pragmatically."
Work highlights
Buddle Findlay defended a claim in an Employment Relations Authority proceedings brought against the Department of Corrections by a former employee who claimed she had been unjustifiably dismissed.
Notable practitioners
Hamish Kynaston is well regarded in the market for his contentious employment practice. He often acts for public sector clients in the health and education sectors on complex issues, including harassment, redundancy and equal pay.
Peter Chemis has a strong reputation for advising prominent governmental clients on litigious matters, including health and safety prosecutions. "Peter Chemis is very switched on, experienced and wise. Peter can tap into real strength and has a sense of what will happen in court."
Sherridan Cook acts for a number of large corporate and public clients on the full range of employment issues, including employment advice regarding corporate restructures, redundancy, post-employment obligations and collective bargaining. "Sherridan has been our key contact for many years and is personable, knowledgeable, client-focused and sophisticated in his approach to issue resolution and matters at hand." "Sherridan is an excellent solicitor who we highly value for on-point counsel. He is absolutely reliable and trustworthy."
Susan Rowe is based in Christchurch where she leads the employment and health and safety practice. She is recognised for her experience in litigation, industrial relations, insurance and health and safety. "Susan Rowe is very responsive and goes above and beyond to help her clients."
