Over the years we have employed several students while they are studying in either a full or part time basis.
Areas of Expertise:
- Corporate & Commercial
- Commercial Property
- Dispute Resolution & Litigation
- Employment
- Environment & Resource Management
- Family & Relationship Law
- Intellectual Property
- Local Government
- Private Client & Trusts
- Property & Real Estate
Staff: 34 Partners, 110+ legal specialists and total staff of 210
What sets us apart isn’t just the work we do – it’s how we do it.
About the firm
At Tompkins Wake, we’re proud to stand among New Zealand’s leading commercial law firms, delivering bold solutions to complex challenges. We’re a full-service firm operating at the heart of New Zealand’s economic powerhouse – ‘the golden triangle’. From our offices in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, and Rotorua, we partner with our clients to navigate opportunities and challenges across all industries, delivering tailored legal solutions that drive results.
What sets us apart isn’t just the work we do – it’s how we do it. Our commitment to innovation, excellence, and building lasting client relationships defines our approach. At Tompkins Wake, we cultivate an environment where collaboration and expertise come together to create meaningful outcomes for our clients and opportunities for our people.
Working at the firm
Working at Tompkins Wake is all about the people. It’s what makes the firm and sets us apart from other law firms – we think differently, work differently, and genuinely enjoy collaborating with each other. Being a team isn’t just something we say, it’s how we show up every day, across all our offices. We work together to share ideas, knowledge, and expertise to get the best results for our clients.
We see diversity as a strength because we know it makes us better. Everyone at Tompkins Wake brings something unique to the table – different backgrounds, fresh perspectives, and their own way of thinking. This fuels our culture and impacts how we work. Together, we’re doing great work, making a real difference, and having a bit of fun along the way.
The opportunities for students
Following a summer clerkship there are several options available that we consider;
- A permanent role as a graduate solicitor or law clerk
- Part-time law clerk roles that work around University or Professional requirements
Part of full-time roles that work around University or Professional requirements that are in our Business Operations team.
Meet Penina Clark
Graduate
“One of the firm’s values is that we are stronger together.
Collaborative working is a big part of working at Tompkins Wake, and this influences my work in that I am always working with different people and am constantly learning.”
What inspired you to pursue a career in law?
My grandfather and two of my uncles are lawyers so I grew up hearing a lot about the legal industry. This led me to study law at Auckland University which I really enjoyed.
How did you choose your area of specialisation?
I am in the commercial property team. During law school I did an internship where I was introduced to various different specialisation areas, and commercial property was the area I enjoyed working in the most.
Can you describe a typical day at your firm?
A typical day of mine usually involves preparing, drafting and reviewing legal documents, and advising clients on legal documents.
What skills do you find most valuable in your current role?
Having good relationship building/management skills and good oral and written communication skills are key, as you are often interacting with clients. The work I do often has time sensitive deadlines, so organisational skills and time management skills are important. Critical thinking is also an important skill to have as a lawyer.
How does your firm support professional development and career growth?
Tompkins Wake is committed to the growth and development of its employees and does this through various ways, such as running training sessions and CPD sessions throughout the year for us to attend. They also provide mentors and buddies for the junior staff which is helpful for support and guidance.
What are the firm’s values and how do they influence your work?
One of the firm’s values is that we are stronger together. Collaborative working is a big part of working at Tompkins Wake, and this influences my work in that I am always working with different people and am constantly learning.
How does the firm handle work-life balance for its employees?
The firm has various flexible working options (including work from home options) which I believe helps support a healthy work-life balance.
What opportunities for advancement exist within the firm?
Tompkins Wake has an Author Career Pathway with clear guidance for us as employees and which provides plenty of opportunity for advancement within the firm.
How does the firm stay ahead of industry trends and changes?
Tompkins Wake is involved in many networking events, and we are all given the opportunity to attend various professional conferences, workshops and events throughout the year. This is one of the ways in which the firm stays ahead of industry trends and changes as we are constantly connecting with others in our industry. Additionally, Tompkins Wake is a member of Multilaw, which is an international network of law firms in over 100 countries.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career at your firm?
I would definitely recommend that you go for it! I started working at Tompkins Wake just over a year ago now, and my knowledge and understanding of my practice area has developed and expanded greatly over this time. Not only have I learnt a lot, but I have also had a very enjoyable experience working here.