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Martin Dillon

I act as an independent arbitrator in commercial and civil disputes where parties seek a fair, confidential, and efficient alternative to court proceedings.

My approach to arbitration is principled, practical, and legally rigorous. I work with parties and their counsel to ensure the process is proportionate to the dispute, procedurally fair, and focused on delivering a reasoned and enforceable outcome.

Parties and counsel appoint me for my independence, judgement, and depth of legal experience.

I bring: over 18 years’ experience in legal practice; a strong foundation in civil litigation and dispute resolution; trial and advocacy experience informing procedural decision-making; a calm, impartial, and structured approach to hearings; clear written reasons and careful issue analysis.

I am not aligned with any law firm or commercial interest. My role is to ensure the integrity of the arbitral process and the fairness of the outcome.

I accept appointments concerning commercial and contractual disputes in areas such as: Technology; Manufacturing; Agribusiness; and Professional Services.

While I operate specialist services through separate platforms, this practice remains deliberately generalist and adaptable, allowing me to tailor procedures to the nature of the dispute rather than a predefined niche.

I work with parties to design an arbitration process that is: Proportionate (scaled to the size and complexity of the dispute); Efficient (avoiding unnecessary procedural formality); Fair (ensuring each party has a proper opportunity to be heard); Confidential (protecting sensitive commercial or personal information).

This may include: preliminary conferences to define scope and procedure; flexible evidential approaches where appropriate; written (“on the papers”), virtual (online) and/or in-person hearings; and reasoned interim or final awards.

Arbitrations may be conducted under agreed institutional rules or on an ad hoc basis, depending on the parties’ agreement.

I am experienced in arbitrations conducted within established statutory frameworks, and with a clear focus on producing awards that are legally sound and capable of enforcement.

Arbitrations are commonly conducted using secure video-conferencing platforms, allowing parties and counsel to participate efficiently without attending in-person.

In-person hearings can be arranged where appropriate and agreed. The format is typically guided by what best serves fairness, efficiency, and the needs of the parties.

I accept appointments: by joint agreement of the parties; under arbitration clauses naming or permitting my appointment; as a replacement arbitrator where required.

My role as arbitrator is neutral and independent. I do not act as advocate or adviser in matters where I sit as arbitrator, and I take conflicts and disclosure obligations seriously.

Parties can expect: clear communication; procedural transparency; careful consideration of submissions; and reasoned, timely decisions.

If you are considering arbitration and wish to discuss appointment, availability, or process, please make contact.
Email: martin@martindillon.nz
Phone: +64 21 144 0486

LOCATION

Waikato

AREAS OF PRACTICE

Arbitration and/or Mediation

I Accept Direct Instructions in the following areas: