Senior Associate

Nathan is a Senior Associate at Smith and Partners, specialising in civil litigation. With almost 20 years’ experience, he is known for his tenacity, strategic insight, and calm courtroom presence. Nathan advises on a wide range of disputes including commercial contracts, estates, property, defamation, and neighbourly issues.

He takes a tailored approach to each case, recognising that legal disputes often involve personal and emotional complexities. Nathan guides clients through mediation, arbitration, and other alternative dispute resolution processes, helping them reach practical outcomes without unnecessary escalation.

When litigation is required, Nathan is a formidable advocate. He has appeared in the District Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, Employment Court, and various Tribunals. He also contributes to legal education and media commentary, including guest appearances on Radio NZ and 1News. A highlight of 2026 has been a judging role for the AUTLSS Senior Mooting Competition.

Outside of work, Nathan enjoys woodworking and life on his lifestyle block in West Auckland.

Some of Nathan's recent media contributions are:

1News Breakfast

Family 'blindsided' after discovering meth contamination in rental home

RNZ

Is there anything you can do about public shaming on the internet?

Thepost.co.nz

Whose fence is it? Testy legal question for tenancies over election hoardings

RNZ Nights

What are your rights when it comes to neighbour's trees

RNZ

Politicians and defamation in an election year - How far can you go?