Qualifications : LLB, University of Canterbury.

Mark is a senior litigator and trusted advisor with more than 40 years of experience across employment, health and safety, regulatory, civil, and commercial law. After four decades as a Partner at Tompkins Wake, Mark now continues his practice as a Consultant, using his sharp intellect and deep commitment to client service to provide strategic clarity to our clients.

A highly respected advocate, Mark has represented clients in the High Court, Court of Appeal, and specialist forums such as the Sports Tribunal, where he has appeared in high-profile anti-doping and selection matters. For the past 18 years, Mark has focused on employment and health and safety law, building extensive expertise across contentious and advisory matters for both employers and employees. His approach is pragmatic and principled, always grounded in the real-world needs and objectives of his clients.

Mark has been recognised as a recommended lawyer for Dispute Resolution in The Legal 500 Asia Pacific for six consecutive years. He remains at the top of his game – sought after by clients and respected by colleagues for his calm judgement, precision in advocacy, and ability to resolve complex disputes with insight and care.

Beyond his legal work, Mark has played an instrumental role in shaping Tompkins Wake into the firm it is today. His leadership, integrity, and mentorship have left a lasting imprint on the culture and direction of the firm. He continues to be a generous and wise sounding board for lawyers across all levels, particularly the next generation of partners.

Areas of expertise

Affiliations

• Sports Tribunal of New Zealand Legal Assistance Panel

Other Credentials

• Recommended Lawyer, Dispute Resolution/Labour and Employment, The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2020 - 2025
• Mark was a guest speaker at the 2016 National Employment Law Conference presenting a paper on the practical aspects of running a case in the Employment Relations Authority.
• Former Director, Chiefs Super Rugby Franchise
• Former Director, Waikato Rugby Union
• Founding Trustee of Sport Waikato
• Past member of the Board of Trustees, Waikato Diocesan School
• Past Chairman of Partners, Tompkins Wake