Class Actions

Class actions are highly complex proceedings requiring specialist expertise. Bankside Chambers includes some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading class action barristers. Members act for plaintiffs, defendants, and litigation funders in high-value class actions. Several have been involved in cases that have shaped the development of class action law in New Zealand.

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Class Action Law in New Zealand

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Class actions in New Zealand proceed as representative actions under Rule 4.24 of the High Court Rules. These proceedings allow multiple parties with similar claims to be represented collectively, enabling common legal and factual issues to be resolved efficiently and consistently.

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Representative proceedings are increasingly used for claims involving investors, consumers, financial products, and corporate misconduct. They demand experienced advocacy, sound procedural judgment, and a clear understanding of the commercial and regulatory context.

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Bankside’s Class Action Expertise

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Bankside members have experience across financial services, competition and consumer law, securities, and product liability claims. They are instructed in matters by solicitors, litigation funders, corporates, and government entities.

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Members advise on potential claims, appear at certification hearings, and represent parties through trial and appeal. Their combined experience in civil and commercial litigation equips them to manage the procedural and evidential demands of large-scale group litigation.

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Their expertise includes:

• Acting for claimants and defendants in securities and investor claims.
  
• Advising on competition and consumer protection proceedings.
  
• Representing parties in product liability and professional negligence cases.
  
• Managing cross-border and multi-party disputes involving complex funding arrangements.
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Our members' preparation, expertise, and depth of experience have been recognised in international legal directories, including Chambers & Partners and Legal 500.

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Several Bankside barristers are also accredited mediators and arbitrators, allowing them to assist with negotiated settlements where appropriate.