My Background.

After many years as a partner and special counsel in leading law firms, I’ve established my own public law practice. I hold a BA (Otago), LLB (Hons) (Victoria), and Master of Laws with Distinction (Victoria).

Career Highlights:

  • 1975: Martin Evans-Scott & Hurley (Law Graduate)

  • 1976-1983: Brandon Ward Evans-Scott & Hurley (Partner from 1978)

  • 1984-1990: Brandon Brookfield Towle & Beyer (Partner)

  • 1991-2024: Simpson Grierson (Partner to 2017, then Special Counsel/Consultant)

I have extensive experience in New Zealand’s Courts, the Environment Court, and the Land Valuation Tribunal, and have worked on some of the country’s longest-running environmental law cases. My practice spans judicial review, public works, land valuation disputes, and more. I also have a strong background advising local government insurers and have an ongoing interest in policy coverage issues.

In addition to my practical work, I played a role in the law reform process leading to the Resource Management Act 1991, particularly in shaping subdivision and transitional provisions. I have also contributed to law texts, including co-editing the Brookers Resource Management text.

I was deeply involved in the aftermath of the Canterbury earthquakes, appearing before the Canterbury Earthquakes Royal Commission and later the Independent Hearing Panel for the Christchurch Replacement District Plan. I also chaired two consenting panels under the Covid-19 Recovery Act 2020.

My Practice Areas

Local Government Law

  • Resource Management

  • Public Works & Compensation

  • Roading Issues (Legalisation, Formation, Closure)

  • Official Information & LIM Issues

  • Land Tenure Matters (Reserves, Endowments, Statutory Trust Lands)

  • Natural Hazards

While my focus has shifted from Court appearances to project management and settlement strategies, I also offer mediation services and am open to temporary secondments.

Terms of Engagement: Available upon request.

Contact me

Fill in the form with your enquiry, or contact me directly by:

Phone: 021 434 713.

Email: Duncan@laingadvisory.co.nz