A new multidentate ligand with 1,10-phenanthroline backbone, 6-(2-hydroxyphenylaminop)-rn1,10-phenanthroline-5-ol (HPAPO) was synthesized through a reaction between 1,10-rnphenanthroline-5,6-dione (PD) and 2-aminophenol (AP) and its Ni(II) complex was successfullyrnprepared. The Ni(II) and Zn(II) complexes were also prepared using an alternative templaternsynthesis involving the respective metal ions and the ligand precursors in 1:1 (PD):2 (AP) molernratios. The ligand and the complexes were structurally investigated using IR, NMR (1H, 13C, HHCOSY,rnHMQC, HMBC), UV-Vis and analytical studies. The complexes were further studiedrnthrough AAS, conductance and magnetic susptibility measurements. Comparison of the directrnand the template methods of synthesis reveal differences in the ligand composition. The templaternmethod appears to stabilize a 1:2 product with respect to PD and AP. Dibasic ONNO binding inrnthe template and dibasic ONO binding in the non template method of complex formation arernevidenced by the spectral data. The RT magnetic susptibilities of Ni(II) complexes showedrnvariation while indicating two unpaired electrons for metal ion in each complex. All complexesrnwere non electrolyte in DMSO solution. Octahedral geometries have been suggested for therncomplexes.rnKey Words: 1,10-phenanthrolin-5,6-dione, o-aminophenol, 6-(2-hydroxyphenylamino)-1,10-rnphenanthrolin-5-ol, template (ONNO donor) and non template (ONO donor) synthesis withrnoctahedral geometry, Ni(II) and Zn(II) complexes.