Leading law firm, MinterEllisonRuddWatts was recognised for its outstanding M&A dealmaking at the prestigious New Zealand Law Awards last night.

The firm’s leadership in legal services and ability to broker the most complex of commercial deals was recognised with the firm taking home top honours for M&A Deal of the Year – the acquisition of Fonterra’s Soprole dairy business by Gloria Foods.

MinterEllisonRuddWatts’ deal team was led by Partner Isaac Stewart and included partners Christopher Young and Andrew Ryan, and senior associates Tayla Johnston and Phillip Chrisp.

MinterEllisonRuddWatts’ Chief Executive, Andrew Poole said: “We pride ourselves on delivering technically excellent and innovative commercial solutions for our clients, and this award recognises our ability to broker the most complex and challenging deals for our clients, here in New Zealand and around the world.

“We challenge ourselves to provide the best value for our clients, supporting them to help shape a positive future for New Zealand.”

MinterEllisonRuddWatts also received excellence awards for:

• Mid-market Deal of the Year – Acquisition of Pinnacle Corporation by Qube Holdings
• Large Law Firm of the Year
• Law Firm Leader of the Year – Andrew Poole 
• Employer of Choice
• Diversity and Inclusion Initiative of the Year 

The New Zealand Law Awards celebrate excellence within the legal profession, recognising outstanding achievements advising on the country’s largest and most complex deals, commitment to delivering excellent client service, and leading legal expertise.

A full list of the award winners is available here.