Ed Smithies

Partner

Ed is a highly experienced property and construction lawyer with more than 20 years’ experience gained at top-tier firms in New Zealand and the United Kingdom. He advises domestic and international clients on major real estate capital market transactions, commercial investments, and development projects across the property sector.

Ed has acted on significant New Zealand developments and leasing mandates, including advising Deloitte on the development and leasing of its new Auckland premises at One Queen Street, Goodman on multiple Highbrook Business Park developments, and a Singaporean investor on the acquisition, ongoing management and disposal of Kelston Mall.

With deep expertise across the full lifecycle of property transactions, Ed advises on sale and purchase agreements, leasing arrangements, development agreements, and construction contracts. He is also experienced in supporting overseas clients with Overseas Investment Act considerations and guiding them through the investment approval process.

Known for his commercial, pragmatic approach, Ed works closely with clients to understand their objectives, anticipate issues, and deliver practical solutions that support successful project outcomes.

Career highlights

Advising Deloitte across its property portfolio, including the negotiation of the development agreement and lease of its new head office premises at One Queen Street, Auckland.

Acting for one of New Zealand’s largest public transport operators on the sale and leaseback of a portfolio of industrial sites across the Auckland region.

Acting for Nissan New Zealand on the sale and leaseback of its site at 261 Roscommon Road, Wiri.

Acting for Highbrook Development Limited on the development and leasing of multiple industrial sites at Highbrook Business Park, Auckland.

Acting for Kiwi Property on the disposals of and the Majestic Centre office building in Wellington and North City shopping centre in Porirua.

Acting for Visy Industries on the sale and leaseback of the purpose-built manufacturing and distribution centre at 122 Ingram Road, Hamilton.

Acting for Precinct Property on the development of its Wynyard Quarter innovation precinct.

Advising Kiwi Property on the acquisition of land for its Drury town centre development.

Advising the purchaser of the Todd Property Group assets.

Achievements and recognition

  • Tier 1 team, Real Estate, The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific