Robert Brinkworth
Associate
Experienced litigator with a background in commercial and private client disputes.
Advises on a wide range of civil, property, relationship property, and employment disputes.
Strategic, pragmatic, and commercially focused, with a calm and practical approach to resolving conflict.
Robert is an Associate in Pitt & Moore's litigation team. Admitted as a lawyer in South Africa in 2010 and in New Zealand in 2023, he advises clients across a broad range of civil, property, relationship property and employment disputes. He is a member of the Family Law Section of the New Zealand Law Society.
Before joining Pitt & Moore, Robert practised at a specialist insurance litigation firm in South Africa, where he acted for major insurers in a wide range of disputes. Following his move to Nelson in 2020, he developed broader legal experience acting for private clients and businesses across a range of issues, giving him practical experience in matters ranging from residential conveyancing to trust and estate disputes.
Known for his calm and measured approach, Robert works closely with clients to ensure they understand their options and remain informed throughout the process. He focuses on achieving efficient and commercially sensible outcomes while remaining a strong advocate when formal proceedings are required.
Litigation and dispute resolution
Dispute resolution lies at the heart of Robert's practice. He regularly assists clients with estate disputes, neighbour and property disputes, debt recovery and enforcement matters, and a range of other civil litigation issues.
Robert regularly appears in Court and at mediations, providing strategic advice at every stage of the dispute resolution process. He combines careful legal analysis with a practical focus on achieving outcomes that align with his clients' objectives.
Litigation achievements include, but are not limited to:
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The High Court set aside the will on the basis that the will-maker did not have testamentary capacity and that the will had been brought about by undue influence – Kingsford v Mathers [2024] NZHC 2470. This was followed by a successful application for increased costs – Kingsford v Mathers [2025] NZHC 857.
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By taking evidence in New Zealand pursuant to sections 184 and 185 of the Evidence Act 2006, the High Court declined to grant the application, finding that it would be particularly oppressive to impose a compulsory examination at short notice – Pioneer Landscape Centers, Inc v Bond [2025] NZHC 2742.
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Application was successful in the District Court. The plaintiff then appealed to the High Court, and we successfully defended the decision to set aside judgment.
De Lage Landen ltd v Singhal Group Ltd & A Kumar [2025] NZDC 31778 & De Lage Landen ltd v Singhal Group Ltd [2026] NZHC 2606.
Family and relationship property
Relationship property matters form a significant part of Robert's practice. He advises clients on contracting out agreements, separation and relationship property disputes, and the legal and practical issues that arise when relationships end.
Robert understands that relationship property matters are often both financially and emotionally significant. He works with clients to identify practical pathways forward, seeking negotiated resolutions where possible while remaining prepared to protect their interests through formal dispute resolution processes when necessary.
Employment law
Robert regularly assists in disputes arising out of employment relationships. Such disputes include redundances, restraints of trade and personal grievances. He provides practical and strategic advice aimed at resolving disputes as early as possible, while also representing clients in mediation, the Employment Relations Authority, and the wider Courts when disputes cannot be resolved.
Employment achievements include, but are not limited to:
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The Employment Relations Authority awarded reimbursement for lost wages of $17,160 and compensation of $20,000 for humiliation, loss of dignity and injury to feelings – Thevenot v Nelspray Limited [2024] NZERA 646.
