Special counsel moves firms

Lane Neave has bolstered its national property practice, welcoming a senior lawyer with years of experience in New Zealand and the UK.

Ed Smithies has been appointed as a special counsel by the national firm. He made the move from Russell McVeagh, where he was also a special counsel.

Smithies adds to the firm 15 years’ experience in both New Zealand and the UK, including at Pinsent Masons in Leeds. Lane Neave said that he is known for advising domestic and overseas clients on significant real estate capital market transactions, commercial investments, and developments across the real estate sector.

He helps clients negotiate sale and purchase agreements, leases, development agreements and construction contracts. He also helps manage the overseas investment approvals.

“Our national practice is one of the largest dedicated property law teams in New Zealand, enhanced with the appointment of Ed as special counsel in our Auckland office,” said Andrew Shaw, Lane Neave managing partner. “Ed’s appointment strengthens our capability and reflects our aim to attract market leading lawyers.”

Shaw said that Lane Neave sees a lot of opportunity in the property market because observed more and more clients are turning to Lane Neave for advice.

“Ed’s skills not only complement the current team, but also add a new dimension to our current practice which will be of great value to the clients we work with,” Shaw said.

The appointment follows that of partners Chris Anderson and Daniel Kruger.

Ed Smithies