Michael O'Flaherty
Michael helps clients bridge the gap between law, people, and strategy.
Michael O’Flaherty is known for his sharp commercial thinking and broad legal capability across commercial property, employment and business law. He works with private companies, startups, government agencies, not-for-profit organisations, property investors, and individual employees.
Michael advises on business structuring, buying or selling a business, shareholder agreements, and technology and software contracts. He helps clients navigate governance and investment arrangements, supporting long-term growth and commercial clarity. His property work includes commercial leasing, property acquisitions and co-location agreements.
In employment law, Michael acts for both employers and employees. He drafts and reviews employment agreements, advises on workplace investigations and HR policies, and helps resolve personal grievances, unfair dismissal claims and employment disputes. He has appeared before a range of judicial bodies, including the Employment Court, Employment Relations Authority and Social Security Appeal Authority.
Clients value his calm judgement, practical approach, and ability to make complex matters easier to navigate.
Michael is a member of the Employment Law Committee for The Law Association of New Zealand and leads the Gibson Sheat Social Committee. He also coordinates internal firm volunteering initiatives and is a regular plasma donor with New Zealand Blood Service.
Outside of work, Michael enjoys football, watching the NFL, and following the Blackcaps with all the highs and heartbreak that come with it. He and his wife Lisa are raising two young children, and he still finds time for the occasional quiz night and planning their next travel adventure.
