Pip Allen grew up on a sheep and beef farm in Masterton, Wairarapa, surrounded by three older sisters and the rhythms of rural life. Her childhood was filled with riding ponies, helping out on the family farm and being involved in a close-knit farming community. Boarding school in Masterton shaped her love for all sports, especially hockey, and forged lifelong friendships.
After finishing school, Pip attended Canterbury University, undertaking a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts. She was initially drawn by the province’s strong hockey scene and the chance to join her sister, who was also studying law. Her university years included sporting achievements and new connections, including meeting her future husband.
Her professional career began in Auckland at Holmden Horrocks, a medium-sized private practice firm, before embarking on a four-year adventure in London. There, Pip worked at RBS in the derivatives team, travelled extensively, and started her family. Returning to New Zealand, she embraced in-house legal roles at Suncorp, Kiwifruit NZ and most recently Manawa Energy, gaining expertise in corporate governance, commercial contracting, regulatory compliance, and industry-specific matters.
Pip and her husband decided to relocate from Auckland to Tauranga, seeking a balance between rural roots and vibrant community life. The move was swift, and they quickly settled into the local scene. Tauranga offered the perfect blend of business opportunities and small-town camaraderie, with family close by and a welcoming school community.
In her current role as Senior Legal Counsel with Quayside, Pip draws on extensive experience to advise on contracts, construction, property and corporate law. She has managed complex contractual negotiations, supported construction and asset management teams, and provided strategic legal advice on a wide range of corporate matters. Pip’s pragmatic approach and broad expertise enable her to deliver practical solutions that support Quayside’s commercial objectives and operational success.
Throughout her career, Pip has thrived in both large corporates and smaller teams, valuing collaboration and accessibility. She believes that legal services should enable business rather than act as a barrier, and she’s passionate about fostering open communication and supporting colleagues across the organisation.
Outside the office, Pip is still passionate and deeply involved in hockey — playing, coaching, and mentoring young talent. She’s served on the board of the Tauranga Hockey Association and competed at provincial and Masters levels, including representing New Zealand in international tournaments. Family adventures, boating, concerts, and travel (including a memorable ski trip to Japan) fill her calendar, reflecting her active and social lifestyle.
Pip has been a welcome ray of sunshine to the Quayside team – with her wicked laugh, approachable manner and ability to deliver quality work, she’s quickly become a valued and trusted colleague.
