The appointment is rare recognition of the real estate expert’s practice and profile, the firm says
Dentons Kensington Swan’s managing partner in Auckland has been elected to join the global chartered surveyors group Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
The prestigious organisation “promotes and enforces the highest international standards in the development and management of land, real estate, construction and infrastructure,” the firm said. The appointment of Matthew Ockleston, a real estate lawyer, as a member is “rare recognition of his practice and profile,” given that worldwide, only a small number of practitioners in this field are chartered surveyors.
“It’s an absolute privilege to be elected as a member of RICS, and I really appreciate the recognition of my specialist practice,” Ockleston said.
Ockleston focuses on infrastructure and public land law. He assists government agencies on land law matters such as land acquisition and compensation under the Public Works Act, property management, disposal of surplus land under various statutory processes and roading and public infrastructure issues.
His recent achievements include advising the NZ Transport Agency with regard to roading projects like the Wellington Northern Corridor, the Northern Corridor Improvements Project in Auckland and sections of the Waikato Expressway. He also advised the agency on tenancy agreements. In addition, he provided advice to Auckland Transport on property management and acquisition issues related to its portfolio.
Ockleston becoming a part of RICS puts a spotlight on Dentons Kensington Swan’s infrastructure practice, which covers real estate, construction and major projects, and environment and planning matters.
“RICS does great work to promote the highest professional standards, which will be even more important as we all seek to navigate our way through the ‘new normal’ and the recovery phase after COVID-19,” he said.
Ockleston said that in the current environment, the real estate and infrastructure sectors will continue to be crucial to clients.
“I am looking forward to being able to support clients and organisations during these difficult times. I’m excited about this new chapter and to the opportunity to share knowledge and expertise. Chartered surveyors will play a leading role in this important work,” he said.
