Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor has launched as a new, boutique law firm providing big firm expertise across employment, health and immigration law.
The firm, with offices in Auckland, Tauranga and Hawkes Bay. Co-founders include Kate Ashcroft, formerly of Copeland Ashcroft which has now split into North and South Island entities. Her fellow former partner was Janet Copeland who remains based in the South Island.
The Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor firm includes Myriam Mitchell and Christie McGregor as co-founders.
The firm’s media announcement on the establishment is below –
Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor Launches as New Zealand’s Go-To Workplace Law Firm
Big-firm expertise. Boutique agility. Deep local insight. Personalised Service.
Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor officially opens its doors today, bringing a fresh, client-focused approach to workplace law across New Zealand. Founded by Kate Ashcroft, Myriam Mitchell, Christie McGregor and newly appointed partner Shi Sheng Cai (Shoosh), the firm offers employers a powerful combination: top-tier legal capability with the responsiveness and personal connection of a boutique practice.
With a team from Northland to Hawke’s Bay, Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor is built for employers nationwide navigating today’s complex legal landscape – from evolving employment law and health and safety obligations to immigration strategy.
Why Employers Are Choosing Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor
- Direct access to Partners – expert advice when you need it.
- Tailored, proactive advice – pointy solutions, not just legal check-boxes.
- Scalable support – from urgent disputes to long-term strategy.
- Local presence, national reach – grounded in regional realities.
“Workplace law is changing fast – and this makes it hard for employers to keep up,” says Kate Ashcroft. “We’re here to make it easier, with clear advice that cuts through the complexity.”
Welcoming Shoosh as Partner
The launch also marks the appointment of Shoosh as a partner – a specialist in immigration law known for his strategic, high-volume visa work and pragmatic approach to residence and special direction cases.
“Immigration’s picking up again,” says Shoosh. “With tighter compliance rules under the AEWV scheme, it’s all about helping employers bring the right people to New Zealand, quickly and easily with no INZ hold ups and workforce planning so that workers and employers are aware of residence and compliance requirements. There is also an uptick (over 214 applications as at 7 July 2025) of investors looking to gain residence under the new Active Investor Plus Growth and Balance categories.”
Shoosh’s appointment reflects the firm’s commitment to integrated workplace law – recognising that immigration, employment and compliance are increasingly interconnected.
Integrated Workplace Law Solutions
Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor’s founding team has worked together for years on complex employment, health and safety, and immigration matters. Their shared experience – including time at Copeland Ashcroft – ensures continuity for existing clients and a strong foundation for new ones.
“It’s not just personal grievance claims employers are facing with staff now,” notes Christie McGregor. “We’re seeing more disputes around privacy and human rights. The landscape is shifting, and we’re helping clients stay ahead, including through our popular helpline and training services for teams.”
Myriam Mitchell adds, “As well as the typical WorkSafe matters, in the health and safety space mental health is very much still a major area employers are needing to be across, both in day-to-day management and in disputes”.
Built for Today’s Employers
Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor isn’t just a new name – it’s a strategic evolution. The firm’s agile structure allows it to respond rapidly, scale engagements, and invest in long-term relationships.
“Our vision is simple,” say the partners. “Whether you’re a Hawke’s Bay vineyard, a Bay of Plenty manufacturer, orchard, or an Auckland retailer, service business or head office – we want you to feel supported by advisors who understand your world and deliver advice that works.”
About Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor
Ashcroft Mitchell McGregor is a specialist workplace law firm operating throughout New Zealand with offices in Auckland, Tauranga and Hawke’s Bay. The firm advises employers on employment law, health and safety, immigration and workplace relations – combining big-firm standards with boutique agility and genuine care.
