Graeme Christie, partner at
Simpson Grierson, has been invited to become a fellow of the International Academy of Construction Lawyers (IACL).
After receiving an invitation from IACL president, Sir Vivian Ramsey, Christie joins a select group of 48 lawyers from around the world.
Fellowship is limited to those with an outstanding reputation in construction law, an attribute of which Christie can certainly boast.
With over 30 years of experience in construction law, Christie started working at Simpson Grierson 25 years ago. He is now considered one of the leading legal construction experts in New Zealand.
Christie has been involved with a number of high profile cases including acting for Rolls Royce in what is widely regarded as New Zealand's largest and longest construction case. He has also worked on international cases, including a recent ICC arbitration between the Tanzanian government and a Japanese contractor earlier this year.
Despite all of these credentials, Christie appeared modest when asked why he thought he was invited to IACL.
“I have presumably impressed a number of members who are already fellows from the interaction I have had with them over the years,” he told NZLawyer.
As a new fellow of IACL, Christie hopes to develop New Zealand’s reputation in construction matters and assist with issues stemming from construction across the globe.
“I hope to show that New Zealanders have a good standard of understanding of the conditions of contract and the issues of construction environments so we can contribute to the way the industry and construction market evolves in the future,” he said.
“The networking opportunity the academy provides may also help facilitate the sharing of information both for any large construction projects in New Zealand where international players may participate, or for New Zealand players going offshore.”
