Philip is a leading advocate and strategic advisor in environmental and local government law. He has appeared as lead counsel in all of New Zealand's courts, including the Supreme Court.
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He graduated from Canterbury University in 2004 with degrees in both Law and Science. He started his career at Wynn Williams in 2004, became a Partner in 2011, and Managing Partner in 2018. He remained at Wynn Williams until joining the independent bar in April 2026.
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Philip has a particular interest in freshwater management, nutrient allocation frameworks, and large-scale urban development projects. He also has in-depth knowledge of the Fast Track Approvals Act 2024 having been appointed to Chair one of the first Fast Track Expert Panels.
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In recent years, Philip has appeared as lead counsel on a number of high-profile resource consent and planning judicial review cases, often involving irrigation schemes and regional plans.Â
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Philip is able to provide strategic advice at the commencement of a project, and is available to provide representation at hearings and any litigation that follows. He is recognised for understanding highly complex issues and providing clear, practical, and outcomes-focused advice.
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Philip is recognised by a number legal directories, including Chambers & Partners Global, Legal 500, and Doyles Leading Environment & Resource Management Lawyers 2025. As noted by Chambers & Partners:
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"Philip is simply outstanding. He brings a rare balance of legal precision and practical problem-solving, always focused on outcomes that work in the real world."
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