Simon specialises in complex tax matters, with particular expertise in M&A, infrastructure projects, financing arrangements, and crypto assets. He advises leading New Zealand corporates, multinationals, investment funds, and high-net-worth individuals across a broad range of industries. His practice is focused on helping clients navigate technically challenging issues in a way that supports their commercial objectives and wider strategic priorities.
His experience spans the full life cycle of transactions and projects, from initial structuring and financial modelling through to implementation, documentation, and ongoing risk management. He works closely with clients and their other advisers to deliver practical, commercially effective solutions. Simon has a strong relationship with Inland Revenue, and has extensive experience obtaining favourable tax rulings from Inland Revenue on some of the most complex structures and issues in the market. Simon also has deep experience in resolving issues for clients with Inland Revenue, including via voluntary disclosures and disputes.
Simon is particularly valued for his ability to distil complex tax issues into clear, practical advice. He is known for identifying workable solutions, communicating technical issues in an accessible way, and helping clients make confident decisions in fast-moving and high-stakes situations.
He also has a strong interest in tax policy and regularly writes and presents on developments in tax law, including emerging issues and areas of market significance. He is a contributor to Bloomberg Tax and a co-author of Bloomberg’s New Zealand country guide. Simon is also a sought-after speaker at tax conferences and industry events, and is co-chair of the New Zealand Law Society Tax Conference 2026.
The premier legal directories, Chambers Asia-Pacific and The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, recognise Simon’s work in M&A, tax disputes and financing arrangements, with clients saying “I found Simon Akozu fabulous to deal with, he is thorough, proactive, helpful and inclusive. I would be happy to recommend him to anyone” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific 2022. Another client said: "Simon is outstanding. He is very commercially aware and able to provide advice that gets to the heart of any tax issue." – Chambers Asia-Pacific 2026.
Career highlights
Advised Wellington Gateway Project on the Transmission Gully motorway Public Private Partnership (PPP) project, including the landmark 2024 restructure of the project.
Tax adviser to FIFA for the delivery of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Advising Kāinga Ora on the design and structure of its progressive home ownership scheme.
Advising private clients on significant crypto asset tax issues and representing them in disputes with Inland Revenue.
Advising private clients on significant crypto asset tax issues and representing them in disputes with Inland Revenue.
Affiliations
Member, Tax Advisory Group, Financial Services Council
Member, International Fiscal Association (New Zealand)
Achievements and recognition
Recognised, Tax, Chambers Asia-Pacific
Next Generation Partner, Tax, The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific