Hesketh Henry is a sector focussed law firm based in Auckland.
We have particular expertise in the shipping and yachting sectors. Several of our lawyers are active sailors or have ocean going marine experience. We understand your commercial pressures and advise across all aspects of marine business. We can draft or negotiate your commercial contracts, handle disputes, provide immediate assistance in urgent situations, advise on wealth management and corporate structuring, and keep you informed of changing regulations that may impact your business.
Yachting focus
We advise on: the sale and purchase of yachts; design contracts / intellectual property; construction and refit projects; financing and leasing arrangements; import, export and registration; chartering; insurance; management and crewing; health and safety.
We can also assist with issues arising from any type of maritime incident or dispute, including ship arrest, collisions, groundings or salvage.
Our marine clients include commercial vessel, yacht and pleasure craft owners and operators,
shipyards, shipbrokers, logistics companies, port agents, service providers, P&I Clubs and marine insurers, both in New Zealand and internationally.
Maritime team
The partners leading our maritime practice, Simon Cartwright and Alan Sherlock, both have extensive New Zealand and international experience in admiralty, insurance and maritime law.
Jim Roberts, the head of our employment and health and safety practice, is a former deck officer with experience on a variety of vessels including container, RoRo, bulk, general cargo, oil tankers, LPG tankers and OSVs.
The team is complemented by construction partner Nick Gillies, who advises on contracts and
disputes regarding port facilities and ship build/repairs, and Zoe Pajot, who holds a Masters Degree in Maritime Law from Southampton University (UK) and is admitted to the French Bar. Both are competitive sailors, with strong connections to the local marine industry.
Our team is passionate about yachts and speak the language of yachting. We are here to support you in all your commercial activities.