Qualifications
LLB (Hons), BA, University of Auckland
Admitted
2009, New Zealand
Sam specialises in construction, infrastructure and energy disputes. He advises on complex, high-value issues arising from major projects in New Zealand and internationally.
Sam leads disputes for the firm's largest infrastructure clients, including Health New Zealand, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, KiwiRail, City Rail Link and Auckland Airport, and also acts for contractors, subcontractors and consultants. Sam has particular expertise in claims involving variations, extensions of time, delay and disruption, defects, and termination under NZS 3910, FIDIC, and NEC4, as well as Alliance and Public Private Partnership contracting models.
In the energy sector, Sam advises generators, operators and public-sector entities on disputes under EPC, power purchase and supply, joint venture, and transmission and storage agreements.
Sam focuses on resolving disputes early and commercially, working closely with clients and project teams to contain issues as they arise. Where that is not possible, he is an experienced advocate in the courts, domestic and international arbitration, statutory adjudication and mediation.
Sam is recognised for his expertise in dispute resolution by Chambers Asia Pacific, and in construction by Doyles Guide.
Recent highlights
- Acting as lead counsel for public-sector and private-sector principals in disputes arising on flagship infrastructure projects, including variation, extension of time and termination disputes, with sums in dispute of more than $500m.
- Representing a private developer in complex international arbitration relating to the termination of a five-star hotel fit-out contract, including a successful award.
- Acting for large energy generators in disputes related to the procurement, design and construction of solar and geothermal power plants.
- Acting for the operator of strategic national gas infrastructure in disputes with its users.
- Acting for a state-owned utility in a dispute with its contractor under a long-term power purchase agreement, including engagement with multilateral lenders on the international financing arrangements.
- Representing a contractor in a PPP dispute related to the delivery of major social infrastructure, including a successful expert determination on defect claims.
- Acting for design engineers and other consultants in defending claims arising from design and construction phase services on projects of national significance, including claims of more than $100m.
Affiliation
- Member of the Society of Construction Law.
A very well-regarded commercial litigator with in-depth experience in the construction field, [who is also] sought by clients in the energy sector to advise on complex disputes.Chambers Global
