Over 125 years at the heart of the region
As Tauranga’s oldest business, we’re proud to have celebrated more than 125 years of service to our region. Since opening our doors in 1896, Sharp Tudhope has grown alongside Tauranga – helping shape the city while supporting generations of businesses, families and communities. Our history reflects who we are today: a firm built on integrity, quality, and trusted relationships.
Founders Henry Sharp and Archie Tudhope
Our story
In 1896, Henry Sharp opened his law practice on The Strand in Tauranga’s city centre. Fifteen years later, he invited fellow lawyer Archie Tudhope to join him – and together they quite literally ‘joined up’, using bullocks to pull their two offices together on Spring Street.
That spirit of innovation and collaboration set the tone for Sharp Tudhope’s future. From those humble beginnings, the firm has grown into one of New Zealand’s most respected regional law practices – still proudly independent, still grounded in the Bay of Plenty.
Through decades of change, we’ve continued to combine practical expertise with forward thinking, supporting Tauranga’s transformation from a small coastal town to one of New Zealand’s most dynamic regions.
Over the years, our lawyers have advised government, supported major infrastructure and land developments, and guided local people and businesses through every kind of change.
Today, we’re proud to continue that legacy with the same commitment to excellence and care that our founders were known for.
Innovation through the decades
The power of many, the strength of one
In 1985, partner Bruce D’Young recognised the advantages of medium-sized firms across Aotearoa combining resources to better meet the needs of a changing profession. His vision led to the creation of Lawlink, a network of independent firms that shared knowledge and expertise nationwide, with Bruce serving as its inaugural Chair. Today, Lawlink remains a strong collaboration of over 15 firms across New Zealand.
Building a sustainable future
That same innovative spirit shaped the design of our current offices at the top of Devonport Road – Tauranga’s first Green Star-rated building – opened in 2012. Designed by leading architects Jasmax, it reflects our commitment to quality, sustainability, and our region’s future. For a firm built in and for Tauranga, it was important that our physical space left a positive legacy for our city.
“Our building was just one step along a continuum of a long process where you are designing and building offices not to harm but to be beneficial to the people around them.” – Alasdair Christie, Consultant.
Michael Batchelor, K Hearle, M Hornabrook, Carolyn Taylor and Alasdair Christie at the opening of BOP Polytechnic Bongard Centre. 1991.
Jeremy Sutton, Alasdair Christine, Michael Batchelor and Caroline Taylor – Route P Waikareo Expressway opening. 1992.
Newspaper article of Bruce Gordon gifting Mayor Noel Pope the Arthur Dagley painting. 1996.
Milestones that shaped us
With over 125 years of heritage, Sharp Tudhope has been involved in many of our region’s milestone moments. Here are a few of our own:
- 1896: Henry Sharp establishes his Tauranga law practice.
- 1911: Henry Tudhope joins, forming Sharp Tudhope & Co.
- 1950s–70s: Expansion into property, commercial, and local government work as the Bay of Plenty grows.
- 1980s–2000s: Continued growth and modernisation, adding specialist expertise across multiple practice areas.
- 2020s: Recognised nationally for top-tier capability, deep regional connection, and a people-first approach.
Many of our client relationships span generations, a reflection of the trust and continuity that define Sharp Tudhope.
Looking ahead
Our legacy is built on strong foundations, but our eyes are firmly on the future. We continue to invest in our people, technology, and community partnerships, ensuring Sharp Tudhope remains a trusted name in law for generations to come.
The strength of our history lies not just in how long we’ve been here, but in how we’ve grown with the people and the place we serve.
