Sam Wells

Sam Wells has extensive experience across all aspects of dispute resolution. He is known for providing clear and concise advice, together with an ability to assess disputes quickly and resolve them in a pragmatic, commercially focused manner.

Sam has developed particular expertise in the efficient and strategic resolution of complex disputes. He regularly appears in mediations, arbitrations, and proceedings in the District Court and High Court.

Sam’s practice includes:

• Acting for principals and contractors in complex Construction Contracts Act adjudications
• Acting for executors and claimants in contested estates and trust disputes, including Family Protection Act proceedings
• Acting on contractual and joint venture disputes
• Successfully resolving commercial lease disputes, including enforcement and termination issues
• Representing clients in judicial review proceedings, including challenging bylaws
• Advising and acting in negligence and professional liability claims 
• Acting in bankruptcy and liquidation proceedings, including debt recovery 
• Property disputes, including proceedings under the Property Law Act concerning the removal of trees

Before joining Gallaway Cook Allan in 2015, Sam played professional cricket for the Otago Volts for close to a decade. From 2023 to 2025, he was the BLACKCAPS Selection Manager, leading the national cricket team’s selection process.