Briony Davies

Briony is a strategic thinker who approaches problems in a methodical and rational manner. She is also a skilled communicator, who has a reputation for managing interpersonal relationships with diplomacy, authenticity, and respect.

Trusted by her clients to navigate their most challenging issues with integrity and care, Briony focuses on achieving successful outcomes for those she represents. She assists clients to manage the complex intersections between government, business growth, and regulation. This includes advising extensively on the scope and exercise of statutory functions and powers, regulatory compliance and risk, public sector governance and delegations, Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi obligations, utility price and access control, transport and maritime safety regulation, and official information.

An experienced litigator, Briony represents clients in significant litigation including judicial reviews, declaratory proceedings, and merits appeals across the arts, lifeline utilities, local government, and transport sectors.

New Zealand and overseas based entities across a range of sectors also seek Briony’s help with their privacy, confidentiality, and data protection obligations. Her expertise includes privacy risk management, resolution of privacy complaints and disputes, and cyber security risk management. She is regularly called upon to help clients navigate new and emerging privacy compliance issues, such as those which have emerged in the COVID-19 response in New Zealand.

Recognised as a leading lawyer in legal directory Chambers Asia-Pacific, Briony is praised by clients for her “extensive public law expertise” and her “significant experience.” She is described as “very astute politically,” “practical and solution-focused,” and “exceptional in her field” – Chambers Asia-Pacific 2022.