John is one of Nelson’s most respected legal practitioners: with over 50 years of experience as a lawyer. When practising full-time, he specialized in commercial litigation and conveyancing together with admiralty work. At all times he has believed in “hands-on” involvement in order to fully understand the practical difficulties faced by commercial clients.
John considers all lawyers should have involvement in the community and that is shown by his having served two terms as a City Councillor, and having been involved for over twenty years as Chair of the Nelson Diocesan Trust Board – handling the church’s financial affairs.
Skiing remains a focus, and his experience in commercial matters helped greatly when he and three others arranged the “rescue” of Rainbow Skifield nearly 20 years ago.
Until mid-2023 he was at the Office nearly every day – except when travelling overseas. Now he comes in less, but is always ready to provide his thoughts and experience to the present partners - and solicitors in the firm.
John Fitchett
Consultant