New Zealand’s first justice and emergency services precinct opens

An anchor project in Christchurch’s rebuild - the Justice and Emergency Services Precinct - opened today, providing more modern and efficient justice and emergency services to Canterbury residents.

Leading law firm MinterEllisonRuddWatts advised the Ministry of Justice on the $300 million anchor project. The project brings together all justice and emergency services into one purpose-built, leading edge precinct in central Christchurch.

The new precinct is the largest multi-agency co-location project in New Zealand, and paves the way for future co-location projects in other areas.

Partners Mark Crosbie and Patricia Green led the firm’s team, and were both involved from the project’s inception advising on a broad scope of construction and real estate matters associated with the precinct’s development.

"We’re proud to have been part of this significant development, working alongside the Ministry’s talented project team to deliver an excellent outcome for Cantabrians," says Construction Partner, Mark Crosbie.

"We were able to offer valuable advice and strategic input into this flagship project, sharing our experience from other projects of this scale and complexity."

Real Estate Partner, Patricia Green agrees: "We advised on both practical and legal effects throughout the project, including the various preliminary options. Our work supported the Ministry in making key decisions, including contract claims and potential disputes during the project’s planning, construction and future operations."

The precinct, made up of three buildings - the Justice building, the Emergency Services building and a car park for operational vehicles - is the first major public building to be built in Christchurch by the government since the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.

An estimated 2000 people will work in or use the 42,000m2 precinct daily.

ENDS

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