Bell Gully news

Mergers and acquisitions market remains strong
Merger and acquisition activity has continued its domination of the business landscape in the first half of 2006. Figures released by Thomson Financial show that 125 transactions having a value of NZ$5.4 billion were completed in New Zealand in the first six months of this year, a 52% increase on the same period last year. Thomson's results again place Bell Gully as the top ranked New Zealand law firm advising on M&A deals. In the first six months of 2006, the firm advised on 30 transactions with a total value of NZ$1.88 billion.

Private equity funds acquire icon brands
Two acquisitions of significant New Zealand-based companies by Australasian investors Pacific Equity Partners have been highlights in the mergers and acquisitions market for the first half of 2006. Bell Gully advised on the acquisitions of Tegel and Griffins Foods.

Bell Gully appoints new partner
A finance lawyer with a global track record of advising on major banking and capital markets transactions is the newest partner at Bell Gully. Wellington-based Hugh Kettle has been promoted, a year after returning to the firm from the UK.

Enquiries and information

For more information on any of the cases, articles and features in Commercial Quarterly, please email Diane Graham or call her on 64 9 916 8849.