The world of international arbitration revealed on Hong Kong internship
Arriving in the bustle of Hong Kong was initially a little overwhelming for Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) intern Connor Nelson. But it didn’t take long for him to find his feet, and the city soon became “a home away from home” as he immersed himself in the world of international dispute resolution. Connor is pursuing a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Bachelor of Global Studies, with a major in World Politics and Human Rights, at the University of Auckland.
Connor says one of the exciting aspects about interning at HKIAC was getting to work alongside colleagues and fellow interns from around the world
I was inspired to apply for the Foundation's internship at the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) as I was eager to gain experience living and working in Hong Kong, a key international legal hub that can offer a range of exciting career opportunities. I also had a growing curiosity about arbitration, which is increasingly recognised as an effective mechanism for dispute resolution.
This was my first time to Hong Kong. I remember feeling a mix of nerves and excitement once the plane touched down. After months of careful planning, the time had finally come.
When I first got off the train from the airport, I was met with the roaring crowds that fill the Hong Kong Streets, which was certainly overwhelming. However, as the days went by, I settled in nicely and started to create a home away from home.
As an intern at HKIAC, I supported the Secretariat — the administrative arm of HKIAC made up of several in-house lawyers and other staff.
I created summaries of incoming disputes, drafted correspondence to parties and conducted research on interesting topics in arbitration and international law.
Interning at HKIAC made for a unique experience as it is a diverse workplace with legal counsel and fellow interns from all around the world. It was fascinating to hear about my colleague’s different experiences and pathways through law school and into the profession.
Connor: "As a foodie, the food scene in Hong Kong was amazing."
A highlight of the internship was roleplaying as a disputing party during a mock mediation for a new mediator. It was great to experience first hand the true effectiveness that alternative dispute resolution can have in successfully settling disputes.
The beauty of working in arbitration is that it can open world-wide career opportunities, particularly throughout the Asia region. This challenged my perception that a legal career is quite limited in terms of ‘how international’ one can go. I feel even more excited about what my future legal career may hold.
Living in Hong Kong, I got to spend time in one of the world's truly international cities. Hong Kong feels alive – its vibrant, fast paced and a place of true contrast where ancient temples sit alongside huge, modern malls.
As a foodie, the food scene in Hong Kong was amazing. I especially enjoyed eating at Cha Chaan Tengs, local-style cafes blending Western and Chinese influences, serving fast and affordable comfort food. My Christmas day looked a bit different – with some Dim Sum for lunch with fellow Kiwis, followed by an afternoon hike to Lion Rock, one of Hong Kong’s many hikes with breath-taking views of the city’s skyline.
Another place I really enjoyed visiting was the Ladies' Market, a bustling night market in the heart of Hong Kong. As soon as you arrive, you are hit with the amazing smells of good food and fresh produce, and the sounds of families and friends making memories together. It is an experience not to be missed.
Connor: "[Hong Kong is] vibrant, fast paced and a place of true contrast where ancient temples sit alongside huge, modern malls."
My experience at HKIAC, and connecting with the wider arbitration community in Hong Kong, has left me with a very positive impression of arbitration. Law schools largely focus on traditional court systems, so my experience at HKIAC has opened a whole new world of alternative mechanisms for resolving disputes.
I learnt that arbitration offers a confidential and efficient way to hear disputes, with neutral, subject-matter expert decision-makers and awards that are widely enforceable across different jurisdictions.
Living in Hong Kong has further grown my passion for the Asia region, which is quickly reshaping the world’s economic and social future. I could now most definitely see myself exploring career opportunities in Asia in the future. The vibrant lifestyle in Hong Kong is truly addicting.
The experience of immersing myself in Asian culture was a true privilege, and for now, I feel better-equipped to better serve diverse communities as a lawyer in New Zealand. Thank you to HKIAC and the Foundation for providing a life-changing experience in Hong Kong, the memories of which I will cherish for years to come!
The Foundation's business programme supports New Zealand companies to better understand Asia so they can make the most of opportunities in the region. It also supports to grow the next generation of Asia-savvy business leaders.
Our internship programme helps interns build a better understanding of the people, place and culture of their Asian host country, while developing industry-specific skills that will benefit them as they progress in their careers.
