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.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.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.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. 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.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:"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."
