A middle-aged man in a suit sitting at a desk with a laptop in front of large windows with a blurred outdoor view.
A middle-aged man in a suit sitting at a desk with a laptop in front of large windows with a blurred outdoor view.

About Andrew Shaw Barrister & Workplace Employment Lawyer

With over three decades of experience in workplace and employment law, I bring the depth of a former national law firm managing partner to the New Zealand Bar. I advise local and international clients throughout New Zealand and abroad.

I have been recognised as a leader in employment, health and safety, and ACC law. I have presented written and oral submissions to the Select Committee (Health and Disability Bill, 2026) and written submissions on the Health and Safety at Work Bill 2015. I also undertake pro bono work for a number of charities throughout New Zealand.

I live in Christchurch and Queenstown, undertaking work throughout New Zealand for local and international clients.

I am married, with one daughter. I have travelled extensively and am a keen tennis player. I am a member of the Canterbury Jockey Club, and I support the Court Theatre.

Career

Barrister, New Zealand Bar

2026 — present

Commenced practice as a workplace and employment law barrister in July 2026. Read More

Managing Partner

2016 — 2026

Led a nationwide law firm as Managing Partner, overseeing strategy, leadership, and client service across New Zealand. Read More

Partner, nationwide law firm

1999 — 2026

Partner specialising in workplace and employment law, acting for local and international clients across all sectors. Read More

Workplace & Employment Lawyer

1991 — present

Commenced legal career in workplace and employment law, building a practice grounded in employment relations, health and safety, and dispute resolution. Read More

Memberships

New Zealand Law Society
Health and Disability Law Committee (since 2021). Former member, Employment Law Committee (6 years). Cost Assessor, Standards Committee.
Bar Association of New Zealand
Institute of Directors of New Zealand
MInstD
Arbitrators' and Mediators' Institute of New Zealand
Associate Member
Human Resources New Zealand
Andrew provides outstanding advice and makes the complex simple and pragmatic. He delivers against tight deadlines.
A graphic featuring the logo of Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2026, with the text 'Leading Partner' at the top.
A graphic featuring the logo of Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2026, with the text 'Leading Partner' at the top.
Award badge indicating Chambers ranked in Asia-Pacific 2026, presented to Andrew Shaw.
Award badge indicating Chambers ranked in Asia-Pacific 2026, presented to Andrew Shaw.
The image features a white background with gold laurel branches framing the text in the center. The text reads: "LEADING DOYLES EMPLOYMENT 2026" with "Doyles" in large purple font, and the rest in black.
The image features a white background with gold laurel branches framing the text in the center. The text reads: "LEADING DOYLES EMPLOYMENT 2026" with "Doyles" in large purple font, and the rest in black.
Best Lawyers logo in red text on a white background.
Best Lawyers logo in red text on a white background.