Prior to lockdown, our Commercial Property team welcomed its newest Christchurch-based team member. We asked him some questions about life inside and outside the firm.
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What were you doing before joining the team?
I grew up in Auckland and moved to Wellington in 2013 for university where I combined my law degree with a BA in political studies and Spanish. After graduating and a period overseas, I moved to Christchurch early last year and have been working as a commercial property solicitor since.
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Why did you decide to join Lane Neave?
Lane Neave was one of the few Christchurch-based firms I had known about since I was at university. I knew it had one of the best experiences on offer for junior lawyers and I have not been disappointed with the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere offered here. Lane Neave’s Commercial Property team is one of the largest in New Zealand and has built up a portfolio of top quality staff and clients. It has been an engaging and exciting experience since joining.
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How did you cope with COVID-19 and the nationwide lockdown?
Like most people I found the events, and the level 4 lockdown period in particular, surreal and unsettling. It was really strange starting at the Lane Neave office and then going to ‘work from home’ mode a few days later. I found that the constant communication from the firm, the NZ Law Society and the Government helped keep me in the loop despite the isolating work environment. I think most of the team are happy to be back in the office now and we’ve learnt that we can cope with working under extraordinary circumstances.
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What areas of legal work have you enjoyed so far?
Since being at Lane Neave, I’ve had exposure to more complex subdivision work which I’ve found both interesting and stimulating. One of my main pieces of work involves the residential development at Alexandra Park in Auckland. I really enjoy work where I’m able to deliver real results, from helping clients with their leases in the aftermath of COVID-19 to helping them purchase their dream home.
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What do you enjoy outside work?
Outside work I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I have enjoyed getting to know Christchurch and explore the beautiful South Island which I had never really done before moving down here. One of my favourite weekend activities is catching the Saturday market in Lyttelton before heading over for an afternoon in Akaroa.
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