Henry Holmes

Senior Associate | Civil | Commercial Litigation

BA, LLB

I have over a decade of experience in litigation and dispute resolution, assisting clients with a wide range of civil matters. I hold a BA/LLB from the University of Auckland. I was admitted to the High Court of New Zealand in 2014.

My practice encompasses general civil litigation—covering contract and tort issues—along with property disputes. I frequently advise on insurance matters and represent clients in complex trust and estate disputes. I also have experience in matters involving alleged infringement of intellectual property rights.

While I prefer to achieve effective, cost-conscious outcomes through negotiation and alternative dispute resolution, I am equally prepared to advocate in court when necessary. I maintain a track record of delivering positive results in both settings.
 
Selected Recent Matters:

Anura Ltd v Sealegs International Ltd [2024] NZCA 538: Successful appeal resulting in orders striking out a defence and counterclaim brought contrary to the rule in Henderson v Henderson.

Cloverbloom Co Ltd v QBE Insurance Australia Ltd [2024] NZHC 2443: Successfully defended an insurer at a two-week trial, including establishing an affirmative defence of fraud.

Colcroft Holdings Ltd v Meadows [2024] NZHC 2592: Successfully obtained declaration, following trial, that an agreement for sale and purchase of real estate was lawfully cancelled by the vendor.

Intech Inc v Anura Ltd [2024] NZHC 355: Mostly successful opposition to various interlocutory applications regarding discovery and inspection.

Marble Arch Trustee Ltd v Liu [2024] NZHC 2705: Assisted with successful application for summary judgment on behalf of a developer against a defaulting purchaser, including addressing whether liquidated interest damages constituted a penalty.

EM v Attorney-General [2024] NZHC 39: Acted for the second defendant in a successful application for summary judgment dismissing the claim alleging misfeasance in public office, negligence, and malicious prosecution.

Areas of Expertise


Litigation

Languages

English

Secretary


Georgia Hayward
+64 9 356 8243
georgia.hayward@glaister.co.nz