Govett Quilliam
the Future
The economies of both Taranaki and New Zealand are changing and Govett Quilliam are evolving to meet the needs of the Taranaki community and their people.
The relocation in September from their current waterfront premises is only 300 metres, but the shift represents a 143-year-long commitment to innovation and investment in the future.
“Since 1996, we’ve had this beautiful seaside location, so why are we moving?” asks Govett Quilliam CEO Sophie Braggins. “It all stems from our mission to create an experience that serves our clients and inspires our talented team of legal professionals”.
The new building and GQ’s tenancy will feature a welcoming lobby, private meeting rooms, dynamic collaborative working spaces, a wellness area, EV charging in the car park, and a technology-enabled seminar room for public workshops and presentations. Braggins says the ground floor tenancies will further enhance the collaborative and hospitable nature of the premises.
“It’s our vision that this building will support our efforts to grow and innovate whilst also remaining connected to the people of our region” says Sophie Braggins.
Lawyer
Profiles
Rebecca Eaton
I am an Associate at GQ and practice primarily in resource management, as well as in employment and civil litigation. I am born and bred in New Plymouth so I was thrilled to move back to Taranaki to join GQ in 2016, following a two-year stint at a large law firm in Auckland.
I was attracted to resource management law as I love the idea of being able to assist with the development of communities, spaces and infrastructure. There is no feeling like seeing a project you have assisted with literally come to life.
It is a privilege to now be back at home and playing a small role in the development of the city and the wider region. I am passionate about our environment and I relish that my role allows me to assist in ensuring that development is sustainable and that our natural character and heritage is appropriately protected.
I am particularly interested and excited about Taranaki’s transition towards renewable energy and the opportunities this presents. With the Prime Minister’s recent announcement that a Clean Energy Centre is to be established in Taranaki, we are well placed as a region to be leaders in ensuring this transition is sustainable and effective for all sectors.
I am also passionate about ensuring that all lawyers and other professionals practice well to ensure that they can produce the best results for their clients as well as live a meaningful and healthy life for themselves and their families. I believe that Taranaki offers a unique opportunity for professionals – we have exciting clients, projects and developments yet short commutes and a family-focused community.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, friends, my partner and our adorable dog and cat. I try to lead an active lifestyle and love to make the most of our beautiful coastline and stunning parks and walkways – usually with our dog in tow!
Get in touch with Rebecca via rebecca.eaton@gqlaw.nz
Miaana Walden
Tēnā tātou,
I tipu ake au i raro i te korowai o tōku pou tokomanawa, tū mai Taranaki me ngā pae maunga, Kaitake, Pouakai, Patuha. Hoki mai au ki te kāinga nei kia purea e au te wai o Hangataahua. E tū ana a Puniho hei whakaruruhau mō ngā Mahanga-ā-Tairi. Ko Kevin Tokatumoana rāua ko Deneille Walden ōku mātua. Ko Joshua rāua ko Teihorangi Walden ōku tungāne. Ko Hayden Patene tāku tāne. Ko Miaana Walden ahau.
Growing up in Oakura, my family have always been a ‘sports-mad, competitive bunch’ and it was actually my love for netball that led me to a career in law. It was on the netball court with the referees that some of my best arguments were shaped. I was fascinated by the fact that two people could read the same situation and interpret it in completely different ways.
After completing my law degree and a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Māori studies) at the University of Otago I was fortunate enough to find my perfect fit at GQ early on in my legal career. I am an Associate in our family law and Te Tira Hau Ture (Māori legal services) teams. I love the sense of accomplishment that comes with solving legal issues and being in a position where I am helping others.
I regularly appear in the Family and Māori Land Court providing advice to clients in all areas of family law, alternative dispute resolution and general advice about Māori legal issues affecting individuals, organisations, whānau, hapū and iwi.
There are a lot of exciting commercial and community initiatives happening in Taranaki at the moment but I am particularly excited about the growth and prosperity of our Māori economy.
Outside of work, I enjoy exploring the beauty that Taranaki has to offer, photography, playing tennis and netball.
Get in touch with Miaana via miaana.walden@gqlaw.nz