We’re delighted to announce the promotion of Zelda Gower to Special Counsel, strengthening the firm’s national Banking & Finance practice, effective 1 September 2025.

Zelda's promotion recognises her exceptional contribution to the firm and two decades of excellence in banking and finance law, having joined Simpson Grierson as a graduate in 2005.

Managing Partner, Andrew Harkness says: "Zelda’s strong people leadership skills mean she has established herself as a trusted adviser to both financiers and borrowers on complex, high-value banking transactions.

"I've had the privilege of knowing Zelda since she joined us as a law graduate, and her promotion to Special Counsel is a testament to her deep expertise and the respect she commands from clients and colleagues alike," says Andrew Harkness.

Zelda’s track record includes pivotal involvement in landmark transactions, notably the NZ$1.7 billion acquisition of 2degrees by Macquarie Asset Management, which was a finalist for M&A Deal of the Year at the 2022 Law Awards.

Known for her technical excellence and commercial acumen, Zelda maintains ongoing relationships with major clients including Counties Energy, Comvita, Qube, 2degrees, and Northpower. 

Beyond her client work, Zelda regularly mentors junior lawyers and provides specialist training on technical areas of banking law.

Andrew Harkness continues: “As Special Counsel, Zelda will continue to lead complex banking transactions for our clients, while expanding her leadership role within the firm.

“Zelda is held in high regard by our people and our clients, and is a recognised expert in corporate finance, acquisition funding, asset financing and leasing, regularly advising on multi-jurisdictional deals,” says Andrew.