Sean-Cornelius Botha

Sean-Cornelius Botha is a highly accomplished commercial lawyer with over a decade of experience providing strategic and innovative legal solutions to high-net-worth individuals, multinational corporations, and leading businesses across Australia, New Zealand, United States and the Asia-Pacific region.

As the founder and principal lawyer at Novulex, Sean-Cornelius brings a wealth of experience from acting on behalf of some of the most significant names in various sectors, including real estate development, hospitality, renewable energy, and technology. 

His comprehensive understanding of commercial transactions, combined with his expertise in emerging technology, banking, and finance law, positions him as a trusted advisor for complex legal matters.

Areas of Expertise

Complex Cross-Border Transactions

Successfully structured and managed high-value cross-border deals, including mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures, ensuring compliance with multi-jurisdictional regulatory requirements and optimal commercial outcomes.

Real Estate and Property Development

Expertly advised on large-scale property acquisitions, disposals, and developments, from luxury residential projects to major commercial investments, handling transactions ranging from $20 million to $200 million. His strategic guidance has supported clients in navigating intricate regulatory landscapes and achieving their commercial objectives.

Project Financing and Securities Arrangements

Demonstrated expertise in structuring sophisticated project finance arrangements, including debt and equity financing, for large-scale infrastructure, renewable energy, and property development projects. His ability to negotiate favourable terms has been instrumental in securing funding for projects across diverse sectors.

Advisory Roles in Niche Markets

Provided specialised legal counsel in sectors such as luxury tourism, renewable energy, and hospitality, leveraging industry-specific knowledge to support clients in complex negotiations, risk management, and strategic planning.

Key Achievements

Sean-Cornelius has played a pivotal role in several landmark transactions and projects, including:

Renewable Energy Initiatives

Key lawyer on team in advising the on the project financing of significant solar and wind energy projects, delivering comprehensive legal support from initial planning through to operational stages.

Major Real Estate Developments

Acted as a lead advisor on multi-site residential and commercial property projects, successfully guiding clients through complex planning, acquisition, and development processes.

Luxury Hospitality Acquisitions Provided expert legal advice on the acquisition and management of high-end hotels and resorts, including due diligence, contract negotiation, and post-acquisition integration.

Innovative Legal Practice and Leadership

A graduate of the University of Waikato with a Bachelor of Laws, Sean-Cornelius also holds a Diploma in Fine Arts from the Wellington School of Creativity and Art. His practice is characterised by a forward-thinking approach to legal service delivery, underpinned by a strong commitment to digital innovation. He was an early adopter of electronic settlement systems during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to explore the use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to enhance client service delivery.

As a leader, Sean-Cornelius is dedicated to achieving excellence through integrity, precision, and a client-centric approach. His ability to manage diverse portfolios, provide strategic advice, and consistently deliver results that align with his clients' commercial goals has earned him a reputation as a trusted legal advisor for corporate entities, commercial enterprises, and private individuals alike.

Commercial and Property Transactions

Landmark Lodge Acquisition in New Zealand
Led the acquisition of a landmark lodge, managing all facets of the transaction, including obtaining necessary consents, permits, and navigating complex negotiations with local authorities. This project required a deep understanding of New Zealand's luxury property market and regulatory framework, ensuring a seamless investment process.

High-Density Urban Development Project
Structured and executed the off-plan development of a significant high-density urban project. This complex development involved comprehensive planning, bespoke contractual arrangements, and meticulous negotiations to align all stakeholders, resulting in a well-structured and legally sound development.

Acquisition of Winery Business and Assets
Key advisor on the acquisition of a renowned winery's business and assets, leading the preparation and finalisation of all formal contracts. This strategic acquisition bolstered the client's portfolio in the premium wine market, demonstrating expertise in high-value commercial property and business transactions.

Commercial Property Investment in Wynyard Quarter
Managed the investment in a portfolio of over 20 commercial units in Wynyard Quarter, comprising mixed-use hospitality and retail properties. Conducted thorough due diligence, negotiated favourable lease terms, and ensured legal clarity to support the client's strategic objectives in one of the region's most dynamic commercial markets.

Project Funding

Boutique Hotel Acquisition Financing
Secured acquisition financing for a boutique hotel in a highly sought-after market, negotiating beneficial financial arrangements to support a strategic property investment. Managed complex funding processes to ensure advantageous terms for all parties involved.

Refinancing of Corporate Facilities
Led the refinancing of substantial corporate facilities, optimising financial arrangements through intricate negotiations with multiple stakeholders. This project involved a comprehensive restructuring to enhance financial efficiency and leverage.

High-End Hotel Acquisition Financing
Facilitated acquisition financing for a luxury hotel, managing detailed negotiations related to construction and development contracts. Successfully secured favourable terms to support the client's expansion strategy in the competitive hospitality sector.

Complex Energy Project Financing
Acted in complex financing arrangements with a leading bank for an energy project. As lead counsel, managed high-level negotiations, including whitewash procedures and the establishment of multiple tripartite deeds, providing robust financial security for the project.

Real Estate Finance

Amendment of Group Facility Agreements
Successfully amended and reinstated group facility agreements for multiple corporate entities. Negotiated with major financial institutions to secure ongoing financial support for a substantial property portfolio, demonstrating expertise in managing large-scale, complex financing agreements.

Cross-Border Entity Funding and Securities Management
Secured funding and managed securities for a New Zealand entity as part of a broader international corporate structure. This intricate refinance required coordination across jurisdictions, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, ensuring cross-border financial stability and compliance.

Property Portfolio Acquisition, Structuring and Financing in Iconic Holiday Destination
Acted as key counsel on significant property portfolio acquisition in iconic town in New Zealand, supporting a high-net-worth client's strategic investment in one of New Zealand's most lucrative real estate markets.

Commercial Property Acquisition Financing
Secured financing for the acquisition of multiple commercial properties, enabling strategic growth through targeted investments in prime locations. This project involved detailed financial structuring to maximise investment returns for the client.