Russell McVeagh has once again been recognised as one of New Zealand’s top law firms to work for in NZ Lawyer's 5-Star Employer of Choice 2026 list, recognising the firm's commitment to creating a workplace where people feel supported, valued and able to do their best work.
The annual list celebrates firms that prioritise exceptional employee experiences and build workplace cultures where people can thrive.
This is the third time Russell McVeagh has been included and follows the firm's recent recognition for leadership in gender equality at the White Camellia Awards.
Russell McVeagh CEO Ben McLaren said,
“We’re delighted to be recognised as a 5-Star Employer of Choice for 2026. This recognition reflects the culture our people create every day and our ongoing commitment to fostering an environment where talented people from different backgrounds can thrive, contribute and build meaningful careers.
Creating a great workplace requires ongoing commitment, accountability and a willingness to keep listening, learning and improving. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and remain focused on the work still ahead.”
Highlights of the firm's people and culture initiatives over the past 18 months include:
- Continually listening to our people through annual Pulse Surveys, kōrero and regular feedback, helping shape priorities and maintain strong engagement across the firm.
- Enhancing benefits to provide greater support and choice, including the option to purchase additional annual leave, increased secondary carer leave, extended KiwiSaver support during parental leave, public holiday swaps to support cultural and religious inclusion, and tax-free public transport benefits.
- Investing in wellbeing through Kaiāwhina Oranga | Wellbeing Support People, internal recognition programmes, wellness workshops, and wellbeing check-ins for partners and senior leaders.
- Continuing to embed diversity, equity and inclusion into how the firm is led through measurable goals, Board oversight, employee-led committees, pay gap reporting, mentoring initiatives and career development programmes.
- Supporting the development and growth of our people through learning, coaching, mentoring and career development opportunities across all stages of their careers.
Learn more about our people, culture and wellbeing initiatives in our 2025 ESG Report here, and hear directly from our people about life at Russell McVeagh on our Culture page.