11 March 2009: As a premium sponsor of NZBIO, Simpson Grierson was proud to support and actively participate in the NZBIO 2009 conference, held at the Sky City Convention Centre in Auckland on the 9th, 10th and 11th of March.

Attended by over 400 leading New Zealand and Australian life science companies, research institutes and universities, NZBIO 2009 is the premier showcase for the New Zealand life science sector. The theme of the conference 'Bio Solutions for a Changing World', recognised the importance of a robust bioeconomy as a critical factor in sustainable economic prosperity – both for New Zealand and the rest of the world.

Simpson Grierson was delighted to host the NZBIO Advisory Council meeting on Monday morning, which brought a wide range of specialists from the local life sciences scene together to discuss the issues facing the industry in New Zealand.  This included the practical ways in which the industry can seek increased support from government on research, science and innovation in New Zealand. 

Simpson Grierson partner Mike Sage and senior associate Patrick Casey also presented a paper at the conference entitled "Legal Biocide:  A light hearted look at lessons learnt the hard way". A session Patrick Casey described as "very well attended and provoking some excellent discussion".