Simpson Grierson - Matthew Hill

Matthew specialises in local government law with a particular focus on local government funding (including rates and development contributions), decision-making and contracts.

Matthew’s experience includes advising local authorities on their consultation obligations, annual and long-term planning processes, rating and funding issues and commercial contracts. He also has expertise in development agreements and infrastructure funding. He regularly advises councils across the country on decision-making processes, conflicts of interest, council-controlled organisations (CCOs), local elections, official information (LGOIMA), delegations and bylaw issues.

Matthew has experience working in-house for the Crown, advising on a range of public law matters.

Matthew enjoys working alongside his clients to provide insightful and solutions-focused advice.

Work Highlights

Porirua City Council

Transactional work on private development agreements in relation to new residential subdivisions. Advice on establishment of a commercial rates postponement scheme. Advice on proposed funding options infrastructure repairs on private land.

Tasman District Council

Advising on complex land development agreement including Public Works Act acquisition, development contributions and construction aspects.

Nelson City Council

Advising on re-structuring options and governance regime for Nelson marina proposals.

Greater Wellington Regional Council

Advising on the structuring and establishment of a regional joint committee.

The Treasury

Advice on the establishment of the Infrastructure Funding and Financing Act 2020.

Wellington City Council

Acted as junior counsel in successfully defending judicial review proceedings brought by Meridian Energy Limited in relation to the rating of Meridian’s windfarms.

Advised on consultation obligations, rating and process issues in relation to a major dam project.

Advising on local government decision-making processes and governance issues (including in relation to the Code of Conduct, Standing Orders and meetings generally).

Advised on procedural and corporate structuring matters on a landfill joint venture between three local authorities.

Regular reviews of rates setting documents for councils across the country. Assisting councils on rating matters including compliance with procedural requirements, resolving issues with validity of rates, and the treatment of non-rateable land.