Craig Tatley

Craig Tatley is a litigation and dispute resolution specialist with specialist expertise in the road transport and body corporate sector. His unique combination of legal skill and first-hand experience as a Wellington urban bus driver gives him valuable insight into the road transport industry’s real-world challenges, and how to solve them.

He advises on and represents clients for all issues that may require Court representation, including investigations and prosecutions by the Police, the New Zealand Transport Agency (and other government agencies), company liquidations, and body corporate disputes. He provides practical advice on traffic offences, limited licence applications, debt recovery, defamation, and harassment claims. He also supports commercial transport businesses with high-stakes disputes and negotiations. 

Craig’s transport clients range from individual drivers to national transport operators. Notable work includes resolving a complex contractual dispute between a leading heavy vehicle supplier and a major transport operator, advising on the supply terms for large scale heavy vehicle fleets, and appearing in the District Court to defend a vehicle operator facing Police charges. 

Craig also has particular skills in giving advice to body corporate developments, and their owners on the day-to-day application of the unit titles regime. He has appeared in the High Court opposing an application to appoint an administrator to a body corporate and frequently appears in the Tenancy Tribunal. 

Known for his proactive mindset and clear communication, Craig delivers legal advice that is both strategic and practical. His grounded perspective, shaped by years behind the wheel, allows him to understand client pressures and keep outcomes in sight.

Craig holds a Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours and a Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy from the University of Otago. He previously worked at McVeagh Fleming and Haigh Lyon Lawyers before joining Gibson Sheat.

Outside of work, Craig enjoys staying connected to the community through his bus driving work. He values the balance and perspective it brings to his legal practice.