Peter Dawson

2 POSTS
Originally from South Africa, Peter’s exclusive focus for the past 35 years has been maritime law. He has practised for the past 20 years in New Zealand and has a strong background in the commercial aspects of shipping, with particular strengths in vessel owning structures, ship registrations, vessel sale and purchase contracts, and vessel build agreements. He advises on all aspects of the operation and chartering of commercial vessels. Peter has been involved in challenges to offshore mining and in the defence of maritime, health and safety, and fisheries prosecutions. Peter is is a committed Christian, a keen multi-sporter, and enjoys surf skiing, mountain biking, and off-road running. He is married to Karen and they have four grown children. www.maritimelaw.co.nz
Buyers and sellers are best served by properly-drafted, watertight contracts. Special care should be taken when purchasing a foreign-owned vessel.
January 2026

Buying or selling? Check the contract

As I read through The Marina’s Brokerage section of Boating NZ and get over my d...
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December 2025

Maritime Law: Cable Protection Zones and Marine Protected Areas

Recreational boaters regularly stray into marine restricted areas, for which the...
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