Qualifications
LLB, BA, University of Otago; ATCL (Associate Trinity College London – Speech and Drama)
Admitted
2002, New Zealand
With over 20 years’ experience Melanie specialises in commercial litigation and dispute resolution, advising on complex corporate disputes. She is known as a trusted senior advisor with a proven ability to produce high quality advice and effective representation for clients across a wide range of sectors.
Melanie’s particular expertise includes managing complex commercial litigation and assisting clients with disputes and legal risk management across various areas of the law including construction, insurance, contractual and statutory interpretation, tort, estate and public law.
Melanie enjoys working with clients to devise the best strategy for them to resolve the issues faced, whether that be by formal or informal processes.
Recent highlights
- Assisted James Hardie with the defence of a series of large construction materials product liability claims, including class action proceedings.
- Assisting major manufacturers with various claims against former directors and a third-party.
- Represented the Earthquake Commission in relation to the conduct of various claims.
- Represented a transport company in successful judicial review proceedings against a local authority resulting in an increased costs award in favour of the company.
- Represented investors in a successful breach of contract claim against a financial advisor, followed by an award in the investors’ favour for increased costs.
- Assisted with the successful defence of a declaratory judgment claim under the Public Works Act 1981.
