Brad Ward

Brad is a commercial litigator with experience in complex commercial disputes, particularly in contentious construction and insurance disputes.

Brad acts for clients on commercial disputes across a range of sectors, including construction, property, insurance, shareholder and corporate disputes.

His recent work includes a range of contentious construction law matters, including acting for Downer in several large construction proceedings in the High Court. He is also acting for insurers in claims arising from the Canterbury earthquakes.

Brad’s general commercial practice includes acting in contractual enforcement proceedings and on complex shareholder disputes, including recently on behalf of the majority shareholders of a leading oil and gas producer.

Brad provides pragmatic, commercially-focused advice directed at his clients’ strategic objectives. He has successfully represented clients in the District Court, High Court and Court of Appeal and at arbitrations and mediations.

In The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2024, Brad is ranked as a 'Next Generation Partner' in real estate and construction, he is also recommended for his work in dispute resolution. Clients describe Brad as an "industry leader in construction disputes."

In 2021, Brad was named in NZ Lawyer's 'Rising Stars’ report.

Work highlights

Downer High Court construction disputes
Acting for Downer in several multiparty construction proceedings in the High Court, including acting on the resolution of the Sylvia Park shopping centre proceedings.

Shareholder disputes
Acted for the majority shareholders of a leading oil and gas producer on a complex shareholder dispute with multiple hearings in the High Court and Court of Appeal and in a related arbitration.

Insurance disputes
Acting for insurers on a range of matters, including claims arising from the Canterbury earthquakes.

Public Works Act advice
Advised public and private sector clients on issues arising from potential acquisitions under the Public Works Act 1981.

Property development proceedings
Acted for the receivers of various property development companies in proceedings relating to the enforceability of sale and purchase agreements.

Work highlights

Insights by Brad