Judge gives ex-AB Andrew Mehrtens chance to resolve bankruptcy bid ‘without undue public scrutiny’

Tuesday, 16 June 2026

Bankruptcy-fighting All Black great Andrew Mehrtens has succeeded in keeping private the amount he owes a Christchurch law firm.

Mehrtens told a judge that releasing financial information related to the proceeding, including the quantum of indebtedness, would cause him “irreversible reputational harm”.

In a decision on the papers, he argued that harm would be disproportionate to any legitimate public interest in the matter and said The Press was pursuing a “prurient”, rather than genuine public interest.

The Press applied to access court documents related to the proceeding after it was twice called in the High Court. Law firm Saunders Robinson Brown has sought to adjudicate the former All Black bankrupt over an undisclosed debt.

The firm also opposed releasing information to The Press, arguing in favour of confidentiality and saying it did not wish to disincentivise negotiations with Mehrtens.

Justice Dunningham declined the application but said the decision could be revisited if Mehrtens was adjudicated bankrupt.

“The parties should have the opportunity to resolve their dispute without undue public scrutiny,” she said.

The matter was last called at the High Court at Christchurch on June 4. Mehrtens was granted a month to continue to discuss payment terms with Saunders Robinson Brown.

It had been adjourned two weeks before that to allow for a part payment to be made, Stuff reported at the time.

Mehrtens scored 994 points for the All Blacks during a 12-year-career beginning in 1995. He was also a much-loved player for the Crusaders, winning five Super Rugby titles.

After rugby, Mehrtens worked in the financial sector in Sydney and is now based in France. His online LinkedIn profile says he offers services including public speaking, team building, corporate events and financial consulting.