Peter Fernando

Based in Duncan Cotterill’s Christchurch Corporate and Commercial team, Peter is a specialist in the technology sector, supporting public and private sector clients with procurement and complex contracts with technology partners as well as advising major tech firms and start-ups. He also acts for both vendors and purchasers in mergers and acquisitions, with a particular interest in software as a service (SaaS).

“This is a period when many organisations are increasingly cloud-based, recognising the need to integrate various existing systems with new platforms, often using multiple suppliers under several licences and agreements. This can be extremely complex to arrange. I really enjoy helping clients on both sides, vendors and customers, negotiate and implement contracts to make the most of modern technologies and create the best outcomes for their organisation,” Peter said.

Peter also specialises in privacy law and cyber risk, helping clients manage privacy and cyber incidents and threats and to understand their obligations under the Privacy Act 2020 and related codes.

He was recognised in the NZ Lawyer’s 2022 “Rising Star” list and is a recommended lawyer in the Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2022 legal directory for technology law.

Richard Lang, Chair of Duncan Cotterill, said technology law was an area of strategic growth for the firm, reflecting the needs of its clients.

“It’s no surprise that Peter has been recognised by the industry for his outstanding achievements – even as we grow, he has proved to be a standout member of the team for his in-depth knowledge of technology issues, supporting many large public sector clients through unprecedented digital transformation. We know he’ll be equally capable as a mentor to junior members of our team, and we congratulate him on his success,” said Richard.

Peter’s appointment will increase Duncan Cotterill’s partnership to 49 partners. The firm now operates from offices in Auckland, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch and Queenstown.