Service

International arbitration

Representing businesses, investors, state enterprises and states across Asia, Europe, the Americas, Middle East and Pacific Islands

The multi-faceted impact of global economic conditions, political uncertainty and a rise in third party funding are independent factors heightening the present potential for international commercial disputes.

International arbitration is the most widely enforceable and, in many industry sectors, preferred method for solving such disputes. 

Globally, businesses recognise that international arbitration is its own skillset, separate from more general litigation. We’ve recognised this too, so we’ve invested in developing a dedicated, market-leading, international arbitration practice – the only major New Zealand law firm with a truly standalone practice. Our team is experienced in conducting arbitrations under all major arbitral institutions and rules including LCIA, ICC, SCC, SIAC, ICSID and the UNCITRAL Rules. Our partners also sit as arbitrators. 

Our International Arbitration team represents businesses, investors, state enterprises and states across Asia, Europe, the Americas, Middle East and Pacific Islands providing specialist advice on:

  • dispute planning and strategy
  • planning and drafting arbitration, jurisdiction and governing law clauses (including arbitration consolidation clauses)
  • procedures and techniques for effective international arbitration advocacy
  • enforcement of international arbitral awards and foreign judgments.

Our recent notable experience includes advising:

  • Fonterra in a significant commercial UNCITRAL arbitration in Singapore, brought by French food company Danone, as well as in ancillary court proceedings in New Zealand
  • Orange H Group and its subsidiary company H Infrastructure (formerly Hawkins Infrastructure) in Singapore international arbitration proceedings relating to two Indonesian geothermal projects
  • on the first bilateral investment treaty arbitration hearing held in New Zealand
  • clients in a variety of off-shore jurisdictions (including London and Singapore) on arbitral rules, both ad hoc and institutional
  • on numerous court proceedings in New Zealand ancillary to international arbitration proceedings, including for interim measures and to obtain evidence.
Only New Zealand law firm to be ranked as one of the top 100 practices worldwide.Global Arbitration Review, 2024