About RA LAW

Director

Richard has been in practice since 1984, specialising in Commercial and Residential Property, Trust, Environmental, Finance and Maritime Law.

Richard studied law at the University of Otago and set up his first private practice there. In 2000, he moved his practice up to Auckland and has been practicing in the Grey Lynn/Ponsonby area now for over 25 years. Richard has a consistently strong following of loyal clients from throughout New Zealand and Overseas.

Richard has a keen interest in Maritime and Environmental Law. He has vast experience in this area which, among other things, stems from his time as a former Director and Board member of Green Peace New Zealand and anti-nuclear campaigner. He is also a keen sailor, skipper and boat owner.

Richard participated in the 1996 Olympics as a member of the New Zealand sailing team. His yacht the “Ranui” has sailed on a number of voyages including the annual charters Richard sails on behalf of the Department of Conservation to Raoul Island in the Kermadecs. Other philanthropic activities of Richard’s include the setting up of the New Zealand Children Health & Education Trust which supports Charitable Purposes and Sustainable Poverty Eradication in New Zealand and Vanuatu.

Director

Sebastian specialises in property and commercial law, advising clients on acquisitions, developments, financing arrangements, business transactions, and investment structures. He works with a broad range of clients from individuals and family businesses through to developers, investors and established commercial operators.

In addition to his property and commercial practice Sebastian has extensive experience in trust and estate matters, family wealth and succession planning and relationship property matters. Over the course of his career he has been involved in matters ranging from straightforward transactions through to significant commercial acquisitions and development projects. 

Known for his practical approach and commercial mindset, Sebastian is focused on finding solutions and achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients. He is highly regarded for his responsiveness, attention to detail and ability to guide clients through complex legal issues with clarity and confidence.

Sebastian completed a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) at the University of Auckland and was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand in 2012. He became a Director of RA Law in 2017.

Outside of work Sebastian enjoys spending time in the Coromandel, surfing, keeping fit and is an Associate Member of the Grey Lynn RSC.

Senior Solicitor

Louisa graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Laws in 2018 and was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor later that year. 

Louisa joined RA Law in April 2024 after working at two small to medium Auckland based firms on trust and private client matters.

Louisa advises clients on a range of matters including relationship property, trusts, wills and estates. 

She also assists on general practice matters including property conveyancing, civil disputes and commercial matters.          

She takes a pragmatic approach to protect her client’s interests and reach the best outcome for them. 

Outside of work Louisa enjoys spending time with family and friends, trying new restaurants and getting out in nature with her two dogs. 

Senior Solicitor

Matt advises a wide range of clients, including first home buyers, residential developers and business owners, on property, commercial and trust matters. He has particular expertise in property transactions, developments and subdivisions, business acquisitions and disposals, financing arrangements and trust structures.

Clients appreciate Matt's approachable style and commitment to achieving practical, commercially prudent outcomes for his clients.

Matt graduated from the University of Auckland in 2022 with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Science. He was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand in May 2023 and joined RA Law in 2024.

Outside of work, Matt is a keen runner and is aiming to complete his first marathon in the near future.

Solicitor

James joined RA Law after completing a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts in History at Victoria University of Wellington. He was admitted to the bar in 2025 and specialises in commercial transactions, civil disputes, and property matters. Outside of work, James enjoys keeping fit and playing tennis, and is a member of Remuera Rackets Club.

Conveyancing Practitioner

Zoe has been working in the legal industry for several years, gaining valuable experience across various areas of law.

Specialising in residential sales, purchases and refinances, she also assists with Trusts, Companies, Wills and Powers of Attorney.

Known for her patience in complex situations and exceptional organisation skills, Zoe is committed to seeing every task through to completion. Her favourite aspect of her work is assisting first home buyers, sharing in their excitement as they jump on the property ladder.

Outside of her professional life Zoe enjoys exercise, outdoor adventures, seeking sunshine and spending time with her family.

Practice Manager

Fiona has worked mostly in middle to large corporate law firms for a number of years both in New Zealand and London, and as such brings a wealth of experience to RA Law.  An expert in multi-tasking and keeping the day-to-day office running smoothly.

Loves planning the next holiday, has a busy family life outside of the office being taxi driver to two active teens, hosting international students and long walks with the family dog, Noodles.