Graeme Switzer and Anthony Drake also join as partners based in Auckland
Tavendale + Partners has brought in former High Court judge Simon Moore KC as a director consultant based in its Auckland office.
Moore will help with litigation practice development initiatives and provide support on highly complex client matters. He became part of the firm’s board this year as an independent advisory member.
The firm also welcomed new partners Graeme Switzer and Anthony Drake to the Auckland branch.
Switzer brings over 20 years of experience in M&A, corporate and commercial law, having tackled cross-jurisdiction mergers and acquisitions, securities offerings, capital raising and corporate restructurings. His clients have included multinationals, Kiwi brands and startups.
Drake concentrates on employment law, working with major domestic corporates, the New Zealand government and various government agencies. He has advised local government on all aspects of contentious and non-contentious issues, as well as multinational companies on the interpretation of New Zealand employment law and processes.
“This expansion marks an important step in our Auckland story. We are deliberately building a practice that delivers genuine value to clients and strengthens our presence in New Zealand’s largest commercial hub”, Tavendale + Partners managing partner Mark Tavendale said. “Our Auckland strategy is not about short-term growth - it’s about building a long-term, specialist offering that can stand alongside the city’s best. These appointments reflect our commitment to the legal and business community here”.
Former head of ASB Commercial for New Zealand Paul Duncan also joined the Tavendale + Partners board this year. This week, the firm was announced as a 2025 5-Star Employer of Choice by NZ Lawyer.
