Specialist areas of practice

• Construction law
• Insurance law
• Professional indemnity

Hazel is highly experienced in all areas of construction and insurance law, with extensive expertise in defective building disputes, material damage, and professional indemnity claims. She possesses in-depth knowledge of the Construction Contracts Act, the Building Act, and the application of industry contracts, such as NZS 3910.

With a background in the High Court Earthquake List following the Canterbury earthquakes, Hazel is an effective advocate who prioritises pragmatic dispute resolution, employing methods such as mediation, arbitration, adjudication, and negotiated settlements.

Hazel is well-qualified to handle a broad range of litigation and provide legal advice on issues related to liability coverage, third-party recovery and defence, defective building claims (including residential, commercial, and school properties), and other complex property matters. Her work in this field often involves defending real estate agents, architects, engineers, and building inspectors in disciplinary tribunals, as well as in District and High Court proceedings.