Edwards Sluiters – Employment Lawyers is pleased to announce the opening of its new office in Christchurch, New Zealand. This expansion marks an exciting milestone in the firm’s growth and enhances its ability to provide expert employment law services to clients across the South Island.
The Christchurch office will be headed by Senior Associate Zachary Pentecost, who brings with him a wealth of experience in employment law, alongside a passion for offering practical, results-driven solutions for employers and employees alike. The new office will offer a range of services, including employment disputes, workplace investigations, health and safety issues, and employment agreements, tailored to meet the unique needs of local businesses and individuals.
Zachary Pentecost, Senior Associate, Edwards Sluiters
Zachary is well-regarded for his strategic approach to solving complex employment law matters. His expertise spans both contentious and advisory areas of employment law, with a particular focus on helping clients navigate the complexities of workplace relationships, legal compliance, and conflict resolution.
Zachary’s Vision for the Christchurch Office
“The opening of the Christchurch office represents a tremendous opportunity for us to grow our reach and serve the South Island with the same high-quality, tailored advice we’re known for in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga and the Hawkes Bay,” Zachary explains. “Our goal is to support local businesses and individuals in building strong, compliant, and harmonious workplace cultures, while also providing expert advice on navigating employment disputes when they arise.”
About Edwards Sluiters – Employment Lawyers
Edwards Sluiters is a well-established law firm specialising in employment law, offering expert legal services across a wide range of employment-related issues. The firm’s reputation for strategic, client-focused solutions and its deep understanding of New Zealand’s employment landscape have made it a trusted advisor for businesses and individuals alike.
With offices across the North Island, and now Christchurch, Edwards Sluiters is committed to providing accessible, comprehensive legal services to clients nationwide, helping them protect their interests and build successful, sustainable workplaces.
Q&A with Senior Associate Zachary Pentecost
Q: Zachary, congratulations on the new office opening in Christchurch! What excites you most about this new chapter?
Zachary:
“Thank you! I’m really excited about the opportunity to extend our firm’s expertise to the South Island. Christchurch has a dynamic and growing business community, and we want to be there for both employers and employees when they need trusted legal support. I’m also thrilled to be working alongside such a talented team to help build something special here.”
Q: What is your vision for the Christchurch office and how do you see it contributing to the firm’s overall growth?
Zachary:
“The vision for the Christchurch office is to create a space where local businesses can access the same level of expertise and client care that our North Island offices are known for. As we grow, I see this office playing a key role in expanding our presence on the South Island, providing businesses and individuals with the pragmatic, high-quality legal solutions that Edwards Sluiters is known for.”
Q: What personal qualities do you think are important in the field of employment law?
Zachary:
“In employment law, I believe being approachable and empathetic is essential. Clients often come to us during stressful times, so understanding their concerns and providing clear, practical advice is key. Additionally, a strong sense of problem-solving is crucial, as we frequently work on complex legal issues that require strategic thinking and creative solutions.”
Q: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career in employment law so far?
Zachary:
“The most rewarding part of my career has been helping people navigate some of the toughest moments in their working lives. Whether it’s assisting a business to resolve a dispute or helping an employee secure a fair resolution, knowing that my work can make a real difference is what drives me.”
Q: What do you think makes Edwards Sluiters stand out in the employment law field?
Zachary:
“Our commitment to client-focused solutions is what sets us apart. We don’t just provide legal advice; we help our clients build strategies that foster better workplace relationships and ensure compliance with the law. We’re not just about resolving disputes—we’re about preventing them and creating positive working environments.”
Q: Looking forward, what are your professional aspirations for the future of the Christchurch office and the firm as a whole?
Zachary:
“I see the Christchurch office becoming a key part of the firm’s success in the
South Island. We want to build long-term relationships with local businesses and offer a service that truly adds value. My aspiration is for the Christchurch office to not only be a trusted advisor but also an active participant in shaping the future of Edwards Sluiters. I look forward to seeing our firm grow even further as we continue to meet the needs of our clients across the country.”
Q: Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Zachary:
“I am an avid sports fan, with a particular love for American Football. I’ve been actively involved with American Football Canterbury for over a decade and currently serve as chairman. Outside of sport, I enjoy quality time with my family and friends, travelling, and spending time with my springer spaniel, Bella.”
Contact Information:
Edwards Sluiters – Employment Lawyers
Christchurch Office: 03 2222 944
Mobile: 021 390 583
Free call: 0800 339 002
Email: zachary@esel.co.nz
Website: www.employmentlawyers.co.nz
