Our people

THE SLIGHTLY UNCONVENTIONAL LEGAL STRATEGIST WITH HEART.

Gerard's clients value his strong analytical mind and commercial expertise. He has a unique ability to make the complex, simply.

A smart, approachable, big picture thinking, Gerard is renowned for delivering outcomes that maintain relationships. He seeks to avoid delayed and protracted court proceedings wherever possible.

A highly accomplished lawyer with broad legal expertise, Gerard specialises in commercial and property law, working with companies, charities and private clients.

On the inside, he is the firm’s go-to for a robust challenge, high-level strategic advice, conflict resolution and relationship management guidance.

On the outside, surfboards, guitars and fish are just a little bit afraid of him.

THE RELATABLE PROPERTY EXPERT WITH A TWIST OF BOND.
Shaun's clients value how he easily relates to them and understands their goals, before recommending efficient action plans.

Loyal and results focused, Shaun is respected for his vast international property expertise and relationship building abilities. He works hard to ensure his clients get the best out of every situation.

Shaun kicked off his legal career in 2001, focusing on property, commercial law, trusts and estate planning. Today he is well-connected and draws on his deep market knowledge to advise large nationwide and publicly listed companies, SMEs and families, on all types of property transactions, structures and estate planning.

On the inside, he is the firm’s go-to for everything property-related, and anything that requires a level headed response.

On the outside, he is incredibly active, spending time with his young family, carving up the mountains and sea, hitting the green (golf and rugby) and fishing.

THE CRITICAL ANALYST WITH EMPATHY.

Ben’s clients value that he is bright, incisive and determined.He is a high-level thinker with an analytical mind that enjoys getting immersed in the detail.

He recognises that disputes are as different as the people involved and the solutions to these can be just as varied.

Ben completed a Bachelor of Science and a Masters in Commercial Law, graduating with honours. He has been practicing law since 2003, and today specialises in employment law and civil litigation, acting for both commercial organisations and individuals.

On the inside, he is the firm’s go-to for complex challenges and helping people with people problems.

On the outside, he enjoys family, friends, surfing, and mucking about with yachts.

Partner
Family
09 306 0620
amanda.donovan@haighlyon.co.nz

THE PERCEPTIVE FORCE WITH A PROBLEM-SOLVING NATURE.

Amanda’s clients value that she’s astute, commercially savvy and easy to relate to. With a background in psychology, she helps make difficult situations comfortable and drives dialogue when the going gets tough.

A strategic thinker with incredible spirit and vitality, Amanda has practised in family law for over 20-years, working primarily in the highly specialized areas of relationship property and claims against trusts. A keen listener and insightful reader of people, Amanda is the person you want to contribute to the negotiations when relationships are forming or finishing.

On the inside, she is the firm’s go-to for solving problems; her intuition is her super power.

On the outside, Amanda and her family are sporting it, with either water polo, rugby or CrossFit.

Partner
Family
09 985 2501
jennie.hawker@haighlyon.co.nz

THE FAMILY LAW EXPERT WITH A HEART OF GOLD AND A CORE OF STEEL.

Jennie’s clients value her energy and passion. She brings a thorough, yet efficient approach, ensuring her clients are always kept abreast of all available options.

Enjoying the challenge that the constant flux of family law brings, Jennie is seen as a formidable expert in all things family law; regularly speaking at events and writing commentary for family court procedure and the Property (Relationships) Act 1976.

An unrelenting and strategic advocate for her clients, Jennie is lovely, but lethal.

On the inside she’s the go-to for in-depth knowledge and application of family law legislation and procedures.

On the outside, Jennie is a self-described ‘fitness freak’. Whether it’s up at 5am to go to the gym or running round after her two small boys in the evenings, she’s all about being active.

Senior Associate
Commercial
09 985 2531
Melinda.Whyte@haighlyon.co.nz

THE COMMERCIAL GENIE WHO PLAYS TO WIN.

Melinda’s clients value her expertise and how she explains everything in plain English.

A friendly, helpful, details person, she is known for getting stuck in and a safe pair of hands when the going gets tough.

Melinda has been in Practice since 1996, using her significant in-house experience to gain valuable insight into how legal advice is used in business. This has made her a prized member of our Commercial team where she specialises in company and commercial law for individuals, SMEs and corporates.

On the inside she’s the go-to for explaining the magic of the commercial world.

On the outside, she’s a water baby, swimming and soaking up beach vibes, and when not with her friends, trains her gifted cat to complete jigsaw puzzles.

Senior Associate
Commercial
09 306 0614
ron.arieli@haighlyon.co.nz

THE GAME, SET AND MATCH NEGOTIATOR. 

Ron's clients value his passion for business. He anticipates risks and opportunities and simplifies complex legal issues to provide tailored strategic advice. Whilst he appreciates the global view, he is right at home when collar deep in details, negotiations and project management work.

Ron works with large, privately-owned businesses, SMEs, high-net worth individuals and start-ups. He specialises in commercial law, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions, joint venture and shareholders’ agreements, and corporate restructurings. He also advises on property, trust and estate planning matters.

On the inside, he’s the go-to for commercial triage.

On the outside, he enjoys travel and sports, but only if it includes cricket, soccer or tennis.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Acted for a national waste management business on a range of business acquisitions and divestments and a major restructure
• Advised an investor on the acquisition of an iconic vineyard
• Acted for a family-owned business on the sale of its electrical wholesale business
• Acted for a transport group on its acquisition of several businesses
• Advised on the sale of a minority shareholding in a mobile marketing company
• Acted for a listed agricultural supply business on a major capital raising
• Advised several listed companies on the establishment of their employee share schemes.

Senior Associate
Commercial, Trusts and Estate Planning
09 306 0611
a.harrison@haighlyon.co.nz

THE DEXTEROUS THINKER WITH A NO-NONSENSE APPROACH. 

A’lanah’s clients value her pragmatic guidance and legal acuity.

Alert and decisive, A’lanah is known for her perfectionism and likes to hone in on the details. When tackling complex problems she considers all possible angles before crafting practical and savvy solutions.

A’lanah has been practicing law since 2008 and today specialises in trusts and estates. She has a breadth of experience in property and commercial law, and has acted for individuals, companies and charitable trusts.

On the inside, she’s the firm’s walking library – we go to A’lanah for anything and everything.

On the outside, A’lanah dabbles in yoga and swimming, is a doting mum, and enjoys the occasional episode of reality TV.

Senior Associate
Employment, Litigation, Criminal, Regulatory
09 306 0608
Nathan.Batts@haighlyon.co.nz

THE EXPERIENCED ADVOCATE.

Nathan's clients value his eye for detail, his ability to think quickly and effectively on his feet, and his determination to achieve the best possible outcome, whatever the challenges.

Nathan has represented both the Crown and regulatory bodies in prosecutions and enforcement action. He has also acted for defendants resisting such proceedings. If you or your business are facing charges or regulatory investigation then Nathan is well-placed to assist. He also advises both companies and individuals in relation to employment disputes and civil litigation.

Nathan regularly appears for clients in courts and tribunals but will ensure that any proceedings capable of early resolution are dealt with quickly, discretely and cost-effectively.

On the inside, he's the firm's steady hand for clients in difficult legal situations.

On the outside, he is a keen bicycle commuter and home cooking enthusiast, and is otherwise kept busy with a young family.

Senior Associate
Property
09 306 0625
kate.vonbiel@haighlyon.co.nz

THE APPROACHABLE ADVISER WITH AN APTITUDE FOR PROPERTY.

Kate’s clients value her effective communication and her down to earth nature. She has the innate ability to get stuff done.

A reliable and robust legal thinker brimming with positivity, she is known for her good instincts and is generous with her time.

Kate advises a range of clients through each part of the transaction with diligence and determination, and is invested in facilitating excellent outcomes every step of the way. From first home buyers to large scale developers, she is well versed in leases, subdivisions, trust formation, estate planning and elder law.

On the inside, she’s the firm’s go-to for tailored property advice that is grounded in good common sense.

On the outside, whilst devoting her time to her young baby girl, she also helps her husband run the family business and squeezes in a bit of tennis where she can.

Senior Associate
Family
09 985 2533
clare.murphy@haighlyon.co.nz

THE CALM IN THE STORM.

Clare's clients often arrive with a storm brewing. She provides the calm. Analytical with sharp acumen, she covers all bases,  and looks outside the box before providing advice or picking up her pen.

Family law is not for the faint-hearted. It requires grit and resolve; Clare has both of these in spades. She turns up everyday with energy. She is known to go above and beyond, to ensure the result is the right one.

Clare has many years of experience guiding clients through all manner of family law issues, including relationship property and trust matters, care of children disputes, domestic violence, incapacity and estates.

Clare is approved by the Court to act as a lawyer for children. She regularly appears in Court and facilitates mediation.

On the inside, she is empathetic and measured.

On the outside, she won't be far from the beach with music in her ears.

Associate
Family
09 306 0616
katie.hollister-jones@haighlyon.co.nz

THE FAMILY LAW HERO WITH A HEART OF GOLD. 

Katie's clients value her thorough legal analysis and kind and attentive approach. She has a special ability to relate to all people with east and grace.

Katie works with private clients at the commencement and conclusion of their relationships, demystifying the legal process and bringing a sense of calm to troubled waters.

On the inside, she's our go-to for common sense advice on personal relationships and family issues.

On the outside, she enjoys sensory pleasures of life, like travelling, entertaining, cooking and exploring the outdoors.

Associate
Trusts and Estate Planning, Estate Administration
09 985 2527
georgina.pauling@haighlyon.co.nz

THE DEDICATED ATTORNEY WITH A GENTLE APPROACH.

Georgina’s clients value her empathy and positivity, and find it extraordinary that this never compromises the swift resolution of their matters.

A results-oriented problem solver, Georgina was admitted to the bar in 1997 after completing a Bachelor of Laws and Arts. She lights up when immersed in the world of estates, trusts, Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) and is an integral part of the Estates and Trusts teams.

On the inside, people seek her help with EPAs, estate and trusts questions, especially when needing to navigate complex gifting arrangements.

On the outside, her children and close friendships ground her, and she confesses to spending far too much money on live gigs.

Associate
Property
09 306 0626
simon.blogg@haighlyon.co.nz

THE PRAGMATIC LEGAL TAILOR.

Simon’s clients value how he rolls up his sleeves to fast-track results and keep things as simple as possible.

He operates both hemispheres of his brain with equal dexterity, and is well known for being friendly, practical and remaining uber-calm under pressure.

Simon completed a Bachelor of Laws and Arts (majoring in Philosophy) and specialises in residential conveyancing, trusts, and asset planning. His humanities training gives him a deeper insight into people and property matters.

On the inside, he’s the go-to for advice on all things property.

On the outside, he enjoys experiencing new places, hanging out with friends and has even taken up learning Spanish.

Associate
Commercial, Property
09 306 0629
raj.gurusinghe@haighlyon.co.nz

THE INSIGHTFUL DYNAMO.

Raj’s clients value his energy, pragmatism, and dedication to their needs.

Analytical and resourceful, he is valued for quickly assessing the big picture before locking in on the finer details.

Raj completed a Bachelor of Laws (honours) and a Bachelor of Commerce. After gaining invaluable life and work experience in Europe, he now specialises in commercial and residential transactions for private clients, companies and trusts in our Commercial and Property team.

On the inside, he’s the go-to for time-sensitive, commercial solutions.

On the outside, he’s constantly moving, packing in as much travel and mountain biking as he possibly can.

Senior Solicitor
Property
09 306 0612
Thomas.Peterson@haighlyon.co.nz

THE PERSONABLE PRACTITIONER WITH AN APPETITE FOR PROPERTY LAW.

Thomas’ clients value his astute capability to guide them through transactions. He carefully takes the time to build a rapport with clients, in order to gain an in depth understanding of what really matters to them.

Perceptive and diligent, he is known for using his experience and foresight to provide valuable insights and identify potential risks and opportunities for clients. Thomas specialises in property law and private client affairs for individuals, trusts and companies.

On the inside people seek his problem solving skills and ability to draft and scrutinise a range of contracts.

On the outside, he enjoys getting outdoors playing rugby or hiking, and catching up over a drink with friends.

Senior Solicitor
Commercial, Trusts and Estate Planning
09 985 2526
sayuree.ram@haighlyon.co.nz

THE LEGAL TACTICIAN WITH AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH. 

Sayuree's clients value her approachable nature and friendly demeanour. She is driven and always goes the extra mile to ensure the best outcomes for her clients, and their repeat business is a testimony to this.

After completing a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Commerce, Sayuree worked at one of the 'big four' accounting firms before spending several years in general practice. Her strong commercial background and experience gained across different areas of law has lead Sayuree to specialise in property law and trusts. She thrives on the challenge of delivering tailored legal solutions that best meet her clients' needs.

On the inside, Sayuree is admired for being highly organised and maintaining her composure when working under pressure.

On the outside, Sayuree enjoys having the balance of both city and country lifestyles. She gravitates toward cosy restaurants in the city, whilst long walks in the country provide some tranquility on the weekends. Dog owners tend to keep their furry friends away from her as often 'man's best friend' quickly becomes 'Sayuree's best friend'.

Senior Solicitor
Family
09 306 0618
niccola.davies@haighlyon.co.nz

THE EFFERVESCENT FAMILY SPECIALIST. 

Niccola’s clients value her energy, empathy and attention to detail. And if you don't understand something, she’ll help you get across it.

A dedicated details person, she’s known for being a live wire who is approachable and always interested. Niccola is a key part of our Family Law team, and is famous for being an early bird to get a jumpstart on each day. She believes that if you want anything enough you’ll make it happen.

On the inside, she’s our go-to for research and when anything needs a little more flair.

On the outside, she’s a hands-on person with baking, pottery and self defence. She also studies Te Reo Māori and is a certifiable Wonder Woman fan.

Solicitor

Litigation, Employment and Criminal.

09 306 0624
olivia.rose@haighlyon.co.nz

THE SHARP LEGAL MIND WITH A CARING NATURE.

Olivia’s clients value her proactive and warm approach. She is able see the world from a different perspective and enjoys making real connections with her clients.

It's in Olivia's nature to go above and beyond to help her clients. No job is too big or too small. She thrives on a challenge but equally sees even the smallest of jobs as an opportunity to learn and expand her repertoire.

Olivia embarked on her legal career with us after completing her Bachelor of Law with Honours at Auckland University. She has now well and truly found her feet and is an integral part of the litigation team.

On the inside, people seek out her ability to envision the law from different angles.

On the outside, her spice of life is variety – her tendency to try new things means she has tried her hand at pottery, has been off-roading, sewed her own kimono and jumped out of a plane.

Solicitor
Property
09 306 0604
max.williams@haighlyon.co.nz

THE PATIENT AND PRACTICAL PROPERTY PRACTITIONER.

Max's clients value his efficient and pragmatic approach to legal issues and transactions. He puts his clients at ease during stressful situations and has a knack for translating complex and often confusing legal issues into layman's terms.

Max recently transitioned city-side after starting his legal career at a firm on the North Shore. He is a quick learner and has had experience dealing with conveyancing, leasing, commercial transactions and general commercial matters.

On the inside Max is our go-to for anything on the top shelf.

On the outside he'll be in the Coromandel with friends and family, cooking up a storm in the kitchen or on the tennis court

Solicitor
Property
09 306 0621
violet.yu@haighlyon.co.nz

THE SENSITIVE LAWYER WITH A STRUCTURED APPROACH.

Violet's clients value her clear guidance and advice, and her calm demeanor.  She is fluent in multiple languages including Cantonese and Mandarin, and seeks to ensure her clients feel at ease during what can often be stressful and difficult times.

On the inside, you'll find her lending a helping hand preparing and reviewing estate planning documents or providing extra brain power for strategic asset planning.

Solicitor
09 985 2534
sophia.alber@haighlyon.co.nz

THE OPTIMISTIC LAWYER WITH A WARM NATURE.

Sophia's clients value her down to earth approach and her ability to help her clients feel at ease during stressful and challenging transactions.

Practical, calm and approachable, she’s known for her can-do attitude and loves adding value to every process and situation.  Sophia specialises in property law and from time to time assists with trust administration and commercial work. To top it off, she is fluent in English, French and German.

On the inside she is always happy to lend a helping hand and views everything as a chance to learn.

On the outside she's never far from the ocean. She loves snorkeling and diving which couples nicely with her love of travel and tropical locations.

Legal Executive
Property
09 306 0606
kris.hockley@haighlyon.co.nz

THE SHARP-EYED PRACTITIONER WHO COMES TO YOU.

Kris's clients value his ability to walk them through complex legal issues in a straight forward manner, using everyday language.

Kris qualified as a Legal Executive in 1991 and became a Fellow Member in 2001. He specialises in residential conveyancing and offers a mobile legal service where he meets with clients at a time and place that is convenient to them.

On the inside, he's our go-to for explaining the tricky ins and outs of conveyancing in plain English.

On the outside, he's an avid watcher of sport and enjoys spending time with friends and family. Situations where he can watch sport with his friends and family make Kris a happy man.

Practice Manager
Management
09 306 0607
pauline.glancy@haighlyon.co.nz

THE CONDUCTOR WITH AN OPEN DOOR.

Pauline is the dedicated Practice Manager who originates from Ireland. Staff and clients value her humour and ability to take the initiative to make things happen.

Fun, positive and caring, Pauline specialises in people management. She has a special Dr. Phil-like ability to deal with all levels of people and problems in the firm.

On the inside she’s highly approachable and always full of good advice, making her the go-to for absolutely everything.

On the outside, she plays Gaelic football and hangs out with family and friends, especially when there’s a glass of wine and sun on offer.