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Diversity & Inclusion

Professional services are delivered with and through its people. We believe the experience people have at work matters, meaning our people are at the very heart of our firm.

We champion principles of equality and diversity, resulting in a welcoming, friendly and non-hierarchical working environment. We have a formal diversity policy and a long-standing zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment and discrimination.

Our diversity journey is ever-evolving, with highlights over the past few years including:

  • Employer of Choice Award at the 2023 New Zealand Law Awards.
  • Being an active member of Diversity Works New Zealand.
  • Recently updating our Flexible Work and Work-Life Balance, and Parental Leave policies.
  • Ongoing sponsorship of the Great Potentials Foundation, including workshops with young aspiring lawyers from low socio-economic backgrounds.
  • Regular high school open days to encourage students from a range of backgrounds to consider law as a career.
  • Sponsorship of Keystone Trust to offer scholarship opportunities to students who may not otherwise have the chance to go to university.

Gender equality

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment and helping female lawyers progress their careers. Our 2025 numbers speak for themselves (numbers are rounded):

  • 70% of all staff are female
  • 30% of Partners are female
  • 60% of our non-legal management team are female
  • 40% of Board members are female, including the Board chair.

Awards, accreditations and memberships:

Racial and cultural diversity

We believe that creating a firm and environment that is culturally responsive is central to ensuring all people feel like they belong.

One way we achieve this is by having a focus on engaging with Māori, both within and outside the firm. Since 2022 we have worked with an external consultant who is guiding us on our bicultural journey.

Flexible work, and work-life balance

Flexibility enables our people to effectively manage the juggling act between paid work and the other activities that are important to them. Activities such as time with family and friends, participation in the community, sporting pursuits, voluntary work, personal development, recreation, or simply having time to look after yourself.

Our Flexible Work and Work-Life Balance Policy allows for the following:

  • Flexible hours – employees can request the work pattern that best suits their personal needs to allow for a better balance between work and family responsibilities.
  • Flexible yearly working patterns – employees can request to work yearly patterns to provide time off at times that suit both parties.
  • Flexible location – employees can request to work from home, or another location outside of the workplace.
  • Flexible career – provides options for a gradual return to work after parental or other leave – for example, a sabbatical, work transition or phased return to work.