Welcome to the team Alex

We are thrilled to introduce Alex Cumming as the newest member of our resource management team at Rice Speir. With close to two decades of legal expertise spanning both New Zealand and the United Kingdom, Alex brings to us a wealth of knowledge in resource management, alcohol licensing, and regulatory legal matters.

Alex’s career includes six years of dedicated service with Auckland Council, where he navigated many diverse legal challenges, particularly in relation to drainage infrastructure, biosecurity, regulatory compliance and judicial review.

With substantial experience in the Resource Management Act, Alex is comfortable handling all matters relating to resource consents and planning procedures and attending to dispute resolution and litigation in the Environment Court. He has also appeared before the Court of Appeal, High Court, District Court, the Alcohol Regulatory & Licensing Authority, and District Licensing Committees in New Zealand, as well as District and Magistrates’ Courts in the UK.

Alex is well-versed in the multifaceted issues faced by local authorities. He has expertise at managing the intricate balance between legal and regulatory requirements, stakeholder interests, community expectations, and budgets. Known for his innovative and pragmatic approach, Alex excels in negotiating and mediating successful outcomes, and finding solutions to complex issues.

Beyond his legal acumen, Alex is an avid supporter of community initiatives. As a Regional Advisory Committee member for Supporting Families in Mental Illness, he actively contributes to the well-being of our community.

Alex is not only a dedicated legal professional but also a proud family man, with a young son and daughter. His love for sports, coupled with a passion for running and the outdoors, reflects his positive and energetic attitude.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Alex Cumming. We look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly bring to Rice Speir.

Related news

High Court declines application for summary judgment against Council

A high-profile developer has had its application for summary judgment declined by the High Court. The developer sought summary judgment against Christchurch City Council (CCC) in respect of two fire design related defects that it said had caused significant loss.  The developer argued that the council had negligently processed and issued the building consent and…

Not above the law: options when faced with a sovereign citizen

As local councils across New Zealand carry out their statutory duties under the Building Act 2004, a growing challenge has emerged in the form of “sovereign citizens.” These individuals typically attempt to deny the legitimacy of government authority and may attempt to frustrate compliance processes—including by refusing entry to property, rejecting compliance action, or disputing…

The ADLS lease evolves – are you up to date?

In local government there is always a focus on optimising assets; particularly land, which is often the most financially and strategically significant asset held.  However, sometimes the significance of the asset is not fully reflected in the processes and documents used when dealing with it; although a challenge not unique to local government.  A prime…