Competition and antitrust

The team is recognised by clients and independent commentators for providing leading advice on the most complex and high-profile competition law issues in the market.

We advise on all aspects of contentious and non-contentious competition law, such as mergers and acquisitions (including applications for Commerce Commission clearance and authorisation), informal merger notifications, misuse of market power and access issues, and general advisory work. We also represent clients in Commerce Commission investigation and enforcement matters, such as cartel investigations and applications for leniency, as well as acting for third party opponents to mergers.

We frequently work with leading legal and economic advisers in other jurisdictions as part of multinational merger and cartel/leniency teams.

We work alongside our clients to develop a deep understanding of our clients' business and the industries they work in. As a result we are able to tailor our advice to our clients’ specific commercial needs and assist them to achieve their goals.

^{Global Competition Review's GCR 100 – a guide to the world's top competition law practices – has recognised Bell Gully as an elite practice (its highest ranking) for the past 20 years.}

^{Chambers Asia Pacific 2025 Competition, 'Band 1'.}

^{Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2025 Competition, 'Band 1'.}

^{Clients say "The team is able to throw itself into complex projects and provide the support we need to generate successful outcomes. It's also agile enough to provide a high-level view which gets to the nub of the issues when we need a quick turnaround on an issue."}

Airlines: Air New Zealand alliances

Successfully achieved antitrust immunity under the Civil Aviation Act for Air New Zealand's arrangements with Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Air China and Virgin Australia.

Interpublic Group

Advising Interpublic Group on the Commerce Commission clearance application relating to the merger of Interpublic Group and Omnicom.

Contact Energy proposed acquisition of Manawa Energy

Advising Contact on its successful application for Commerce Commission clearance to acquire rival electricity generator, Manawa Energy.

Fletcher Building/Winstone Wallboards

Advising Fletcher Building/Winstone Wallboards on the Commerce Commission's court proceedings against the historic use of rebates by Winstone Wallboards.

Market study into banking services

Advising ASB Bank on the Commerce Commission's market study into personal banking services.

One New Zealand proposed acquisition of Dense Air New Zealand

Advised One NZ on the acquisition of certain radio spectrum. Formal (and unconditional) clearance was granted following an extensive investigation process, notwithstanding substantial opposition from rival 2degrees.

Inmusic opposition to Alphatheta's proposed acquisition of Serato

Advised inMusic Brands to successfully oppose the proposed acquisition of Serato Audio Research by competing DJ hardware/software company, Alpha Theta Corporation.