Energy & Natural Resources - New Zealand
What the team is known for
MinterEllisonRuddWatts has a diverse and multidisciplinary practice across the energy market, including oil and gas, electricity and renewable energy. The practice is developing its offering in the forestry sector and assists public and private sector clients on resource and planning consents for a broad range of large-scale projects. It also provides a comprehensive offering on climate change and emissions trading, and is adept at representing clients in environmental disputes. Notable clients include Heritage New Zealand, Southern Cross Healthcare and First Gas.
Strengths
"The firm has very good knowledge, experience and good depth across the team."
"We were impressed by MinterEllisonRuddWatts' ability to manage a massive project, pull multiple strands together and keep on top of the detail, while assisting with strategic direction."
"They were excellent on the technical legal side, but also able to bring very good, pragmatic strategic thinking to matters."
Work highlights
MinterEllisonRuddWatts advised Channel Infrastructure on the decommissioning of the Marsden Point Oil refinery and conversion into an import terminal for the import, storage, testing and distribution of refined transport fuels.
Notable practitioners
Paul Foley is a consultant in MinterEllisonRuddWatts' Wellington office. He enjoys a strong reputation in the market for his impressive track record of handling major transactions and regulatory issues in the electricity sector. "Paul is one of the most accomplished lawyers I have had the pleasure of working with. He has the ability to identify options that no one else can see."
Sarah Sinclair is based in Auckland, where she chairs MinterEllisonRuddWatts. She is renowned for her considerable experience advising major energy infrastructure projects, particularly within the upstream oil and gas and hydrogen sectors. "Sarah Sinclair is as good as it gets - she grasps complex commercial drivers effortlessly and provides really insightful and robust advice that you know you can 100% rely on." "She is an expert in infrastructure advice and an exceptional strategist."