Best Project Finance Lawyers in New Zealand

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Grayson Clements
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
As trusted advisors to successful people and businesses in good times and bad, we champion our clients' interests, locally and globally. We are proud to help many of our clients use their success to make the world a better place.We advise individuals, families, businesses, government, educational...
DG Law Limited
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 1984
50 people in their team
Māori
English
HistoryDavid Graham began practice on his own account in Panmure in 1984 as David Graham Law Office.In February 1998 the firm had grown significantly, so David and the team relocated to 13 Queens Road, Panmure (the old Westpac building).The growth of the firm continued and in January 2004 David was...
L I U Legal
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2019
10 people in their team
Māori
English
L I U Legal stands for the Lawyer who takes Initiatives to achieve the Ultimate for you.In over a decade, Penny has serviced her clients to achieve the ultimate results in legal matters relating to property, trusts, immigration and commercial/company. Penny’s dedication to her clients generated a...
Asco Legal
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
A Fresh Approach to Legal ServicesAt ASCO Legal we have a fresh perspective on the practice of law, a client-centered one. We understand that serving the legal needs our clients have entrusted to us, is our core purpose.​​We've got the tools and we listen to what our clients need. We give...
Weston Ward & Lascelles
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1883
50 people in their team
Māori
English
You receive quality and practical advice from a highly experienced legal team. We deliver an exquisite service at the most cost-effective price. Weston Ward & Lascelles has been providing quality legal advice since 1883. We are medium sized Christchurch law firm with a team of highly...
Saunders & Co Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1922
200 people in their team
Māori
English
SAUNDERS & CO IS A FIRM OF CHRISTCHURCH LAWYERS EXPERIENCED IN COMMERCIAL AND CORPORATE MATTERS, INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY, LITIGATION, IMMIGRATION, FAMILY, CRIMINAL , TAX, RESOURCE MANGEMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW.Our Christchurch law firm office is divided into teams.The...
North End Law
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
OUR TEAMWe think our team is one of the best in the Waikato.Our legal advisors are experienced, client focused and experts in their fieldsProperty, commercial, company, trusts and private client legal matters are our specialties. Wewelcome a phone call or email to talk about what you need and what...
Wakefields Lawyers
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1999
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Wakefields Lawyers is now an over 25 person strong team, thriving in five locations - Wellington, Paraparaumu, Otaki, Levin, and Foxton. This makes our highly experienced team tremendously flexible with where we’re able to meet our clients, bringing quality legal advice to your local...
Burley Castle Hawkins Law Limited
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 2020
10 people in their team
Māori
English
Legal ServicesWhether its legal expertise covering Company & Commercial Law, Employment Law, Civil Litigation (including disputes), Family & Relationship Property Law, Conveyancing, Trusts or Wills & Powers of Attorney, we've got your back. The BCH Law team is dedicated to providing a...
Convex Legal
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
10 people in their team
Māori
English
OverviewIn our experience, people get the most value from their lawyer when they’re talking about more than just the issue at hand. At Convex Legal we look at your situation as a whole-dealing with today, but keeping an eye on what’s coming next.For us, it’s about three things: Keeping it...
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About Project Finance Law in New Zealand

Project finance is a method of financing large-scale infrastructure, energy, and public works projects in New Zealand, generally based on the project's own ability to generate revenue as collateral for the loan. Instead of relying solely on the balance sheets of project sponsors, funding is repaid from the cash flow produced by the specific project. This approach is frequently used for public-private partnerships (PPPs), renewables projects, transportation, utilities, and other major developments. Project finance law in New Zealand covers a wide range of legal areas, including banking and finance law, securities, contract law, property law, and regulatory compliance. Specialized legal expertise is often required to navigate complex financial structures, multi-party agreements, and regulatory obligations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Project finance transactions are highly complex and may involve multiple stakeholders such as financiers, government agencies, contractors, and private investors. You may need a lawyer if you are:

  • Developing or investing in large infrastructure, energy, or utility projects
  • Entering into public-private partnerships with the government or local authorities
  • Raising funds for a major project through syndicated loans or bonds
  • Negotiating engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts
  • Navigating permitting and environmental approvals
  • Structuring project company and special purpose vehicle (SPV) arrangements
  • Ensuring compliance with local laws and regulatory requirements
  • Managing project risks, insurance, and security arrangements

Legal advice is critical in structuring deals, drafting agreements, and mitigating risks which can help avoid costly disputes or delays.

Local Laws Overview

Several key aspects of New Zealand law are particularly relevant to project finance:

  • Contract Law: Most project finance transactions are founded on detailed contractual arrangements among all parties, including loan agreements, shareholder agreements, EPC contracts, and operation and maintenance agreements.
  • Security Interests: The Personal Property Securities Act 1999 governs registration and priority of security interests granted over project assets and receivables.
  • Resource Management: Projects often require resource consents under the Resource Management Act 1991 for land use and environmental impact.
  • Public-Private Partnership Regulation: The government has guidelines for PPPs, including standardized contracts and risk allocations.
  • Taxation: Projects must comply with New Zealand tax laws, including those related to Goods and Services Tax (GST) and income tax, which can affect financing structures and returns.
  • Foreign Investment: Overseas Investment Act 2005 may impact projects involving significant foreign investors or sensitive assets, requiring consent from the Overseas Investment Office.

Understanding and complying with these laws is crucial to avoid delays or legal challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is project finance?

Project finance is a method of funding large projects where the project's future revenues serve as the primary source of repayment, and assets or rights are used as collateral.

Who are the main parties involved in a project finance transaction?

The main parties typically include the project sponsor, lenders (often banks or financial institutions), contractors, government authorities, investors, and insurers.

What is a special purpose vehicle (SPV) in project finance?

An SPV is a legally separate entity created to isolate financial risk by owning and operating the project, and to facilitate the raising of finance.

What legal documents are essential in a New Zealand project finance deal?

Key documents often include loan and security agreements, shareholder agreements, EPC contracts, operations and maintenance agreements, and various government approvals or permits.

Do project finance deals in New Zealand require government approval?

Some projects, especially those involving public assets, infrastructure, or foreign investment, may require formal approvals or consents from government agencies.

How are risks allocated among parties?

Contracts typically allocate risks based on which party can best manage or mitigate them, covering aspects like construction delays, cost overruns, regulatory changes, and force majeure events.

Can foreign companies invest in project finance in New Zealand?

Yes, foreign companies can invest, but significant or sensitive acquisitions may require Overseas Investment Office consent under the Overseas Investment Act.

What happens if the project does not generate enough revenue?

If a project underperforms, lenders may exercise their security rights to take control of the project assets, or the equity of sponsors may be at risk. Legal agreements set out the remedies and recourse available.

How does New Zealand law treat environmental and resource consents?

Projects requiring land or resource use must obtain consents under the Resource Management Act, and compliance is strictly monitored to protect the environment.

How can a lawyer help me with project finance?

A lawyer can assist in structuring deals, negotiating contracts, ensuring regulatory compliance, identifying risks, and helping resolve disputes or challenges, ultimately safeguarding your financial interests.

Additional Resources

  • Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) - Provides information and guidelines on infrastructure and PPP projects.
  • Reserve Bank of New Zealand - Regulatory information on banking and finance in New Zealand.
  • Overseas Investment Office - Guidance on the Overseas Investment Act and foreign investment approvals.
  • New Zealand Law Society - Directory of lawyers with expertise in project finance.
  • Local Councils and Regional Authorities - Information on resource consents and compliance obligations.

Next Steps

If you are considering engaging in a project finance transaction in New Zealand, it is important to take the following steps:

  • Start by identifying the type and scope of your project and potential stakeholders involved
  • Assess the regulatory approvals you may require, including resource consents and any permissions for foreign investment
  • Prepare a list of key contractual arrangements needed to secure finance and manage project delivery
  • Contact a lawyer with experience in project finance to review your plans, provide advice on structuring, and help you navigate legal and compliance issues
  • Gather all relevant documentation, such as business plans, feasibility studies, and proof of funding or backing
  • Work closely with your legal team to ensure that all requirements are met and risks are properly managed before proceeding

Getting professional legal advice as early as possible can help set your project up for success and prevent avoidable mistakes or delays.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in New Zealand through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Project Finance, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in New Zealand - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.