About Patterson Legal 

Founded in 2022, Patterson Legal is a New Zealand law firm that specialises in commercial transactions and business taxation law. At the helm is David Patterson, a nationally renowned tax lawyer with over forty years of industry experience delivering practical solutions that meet his clients’ goals. 


Patterson Legal delivers services across the nation and internationally, ensuring broad access to uncompromising technical excellence, expert legal advice, and world-class service. David will travel to meet clients in person, although most services can now be delivered online or over the phone.

David Patterson 

David is a member of the International Fiscal Association, NZ Branch (and a former Chair). He was a member of the Government’s Tax Review 2001 and ranked in international directories. Additionally, David is a co-author of Bloomberg BNA’s International Tax Management Portfolio for New Zealand titled Business Operations in NZ.

Extensive experience as a tax and commercial lawyer:

  • Chapman Tripp (2014-2022 partner; 2010-2014 consultant)
  • Minter Ellison Rudd Watts (1990-2010 partner; 2002-2008 Chair)
  • Davis Polk (NYC and Paris, 1985-1990)

Qualifications

  • Barrister & Solicitor (NZ)
  • Admitted as an attorney in New York (1986)
  • BCA, LLB (Hons) (VUW)
  • LLM (Harvard)

Practical Governance Experience 

David has extensive hands-on governance experience in helping companies set goals and deliver outcomes, including:

Wellington Tennis (2014 to date: Chair)

Dingle Foundation Wellington (2020 to 2024: Chair)

Fulbright NZ (2008-2020: Deputy Chair, Chair and Treasurer)

Tennis NZ (2007-2013: Chair; 2002-2013: board member)

Minter Ellison Rudd Watts (2002-2008: Chair)

Solid Energy (2010-2013: Director)

National Party Policy Consultation (2004-2019, 2023: Chair)

“A lawyer who doesn’t understand business doesn’t understand the law.”

- Edwin Sutherland.

Contact Us Today
Share by: