Worth the wait: Law firm returns to Christchurch CBD

A law firm finally moves to an impressive new Christchurch office and appoints a new partner in the process.

A law firm finally moves to an impressive new Christchurch office and appoints a new partner in the process.

After spending four years in suburbs following the Christchurch earthquakes, Duncan Cotterill has moved into a new and improved building, Duncan Cotterill Plaza.

Terry McLaughlin, the firm’s chief executive, is relieved to have returned to the CBD.  He says the firm will be maximising the business opportunities that the new office will provide. 

“It’s been a long process but it’s fantastic to finally be here,” McLaughlin said. 

“Being informed in the local market is vital given the level of economic activity and the business opportunities and risks our clients are facing. The building provides an outstanding platform to be a hub of business activity in Christchurch – a central location, excellent co-tenants and a building which reflects our brand.”

Duncan Cotterill Plaza is engineered to a ‘Wellington Code’ level of earthquake shaking – a far higher than the updated Christchurch code – and has been built according to BASE (Building a Sustainable Environment) certification, making it one of the first new buildings in Christchurch to be certified under the BASE requirements. 

“The clear message from our people was that they wanted to work in a low-rise, safe building in a developed area,” said McLaughlin.

“There’s no comparison with being back in the city, where staff are working in a thriving business environment, with a choice of cafes and shops on our doorstep, and Hagley Park so close.”

The firm now has double the space it had in its suburban premises and includes a trendy staff hub and impressive balcony areas.

Coinciding with the move, Mark Cathro has been appointed as partner to take advantage of the CBD location and grow the firm’s corporate and commercial practice. 
 
 

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