Simon Zhao

High-Profile Experience

Simon has acquired extensive experience working on high-profile construction disputes at a “Red Circle” international law firm, King & Wood Mallesons. This included a $200 million design defect claim against a design joint venture for an $8 billion rail project. A $280 million claim against a Project Co and the State for a $2.3 billion hospital project. A $200 million claim from a contractor joint venture due to unforeseen ground conditions in a 'linked dispute' for a $16.4 billion motorway project. He’s briefed owners in a $157 million dispute concerning fire, moisture and earthquake defects of an iconic residential high-rise.

Professional Development

Simon has developed a deep understanding of the legal intricacies involved in complex construction projects. His expertise spans various aspects, including contractual interpretation, expert witness evidence, adjudication responses, and proceedings against independent certifiers. Additionally, Simon has been awarded a Master of Construction (Construction Law) at Massey University, further enhancing his expertise in the field.

Refining the Knowledge

Simon's legal career has been diverse, allowing him to refine his skills in various areas of the law. He is involved in academia, having been awarded a Building Research Association of New Zealand Scholarship in 2023 to study the legislative barriers to reducing emissions in the construction industry. He has contributed to the Society of Construction Law New Zealand in 2024 in delivering a case law update webinar. He has been a contributor to the genesis of the Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill.