Hela graduated from Auckland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Laws in 2019 and was admitted to the New Zealand Bar in 2023. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Auckland, majoring in Political Studies and Sociology which she gained in 2012.

Before joining private practice, Hela spent several years working as a legal advocate and industrial representative in various unions and member-led organisations.  Hela brings with her extensive experience in contentious and non-contentious employment matters. She has advised and negotiated settlements on behalf of clients in complex disputes including in the context of disciplinary investigations, performance management processes, personal grievances, restructures/redundancies, wage arrears claims, mediations, and collective bargaining.

Hela has worked across various industries in both the public and private sectors including education, aviation, retail, finance, and manufacturing. This background enables her to engage confidently and effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.

Hela is known for her strong advocacy, strategic thinking, and ability to resolve matters efficiently. Hela is committed to securing positive outcomes for her clients, often through pragmatic negotiation and relationship-focussed problem solving. She is passionate about resolving disputes quickly and with care to minimise the stress that often accompanies such disputes.

Hela joined our Employment Law Team in July 2025.