Auckland-based MGF Webb partner Malcolm Webb and former Gilbert + Tobin partner Angus Henderson this week announced the formation of their "next generation" law firm, with a focus on technology, media and telecommunications.

With offices in Sydney and Auckland, Webb told Lawyers Weekly the firm will look to bring a number of new recruits into the firm to take on an expected steady stream of work.

"We'll be growing the Sydney office reasonably rapidly," he said. "On day one it's just Angus there but we're looking to get another three or four lawyers in the relatively near future."

Web said starting a new firm in the current environment was of little concern, noting that the firm's strategy was by no means a short-term vision. "The environment is not a particular concern when you look into the medium and long term," he said.

Webb said that although it was divided by the Tasman, the firm would work as a single unit. "The way we are going to be working is very much as a single team, regardless of our location. Our lawyers who are based here in Auckland will be working on Australian projects and the Australian lawyers will be working on NZ projects," he said.

"We have very similar areas of focus and we wanted to bring those two practices together to create a stronger base and a wider geographic reach,"

Web added that he has labelled the firm as "next generation" given its telecommunications and technology focus and the fact hat it will be an international firm.

Auckland-based Mark Toner and Corin Maberly will also join the partnership.

- Angela Priestley