Auckland

Mark Gulliford

Trainee secondment to Chapman Tripp

I have already ticked off gorgeous beaches, a plethora of vineyards, mountains, forests, thermal springs and great lakes from my long list of 'must-sees'. New Zealand is certainly a country of great variety and I am enjoying exploring every corner!

My work in the Litigation team at Chapman Tripp is equally varied too – everything from a commercial dispute across three continents to the insolvency of a dairy farm. There is no exact equivalent of a trainee, which means plenty of responsibility from day one. This has included drafting submissions for trial, putting together an application for summary judgment, reviewing an ombudsman’s decision and commenting on aspects of a dawn raids policy.

My colleagues are friendly and unfailingly helpful, whether I’m trying to decipher the intricacies of court procedure or deciding where to go "tramping" (hiking) next. Weekly office drinks, sports nights and the annual team retreat have made it easy to get to know my peers.

Outside the office, Auckland offers a beautiful skyline, great food and the perfect flat white.

The remaining months will pass all too quickly. My secondment has been an amazing experience so far, providing a great transition to my new life as an associate when I return to London.