Chief Justice welcomes the appointment of new Chief Māori Land Court Judge
The Chief Justice welcomes the announcement by Associate Minister of Māori Development, the Hon Nanaia Mahuta, of Judge Caren Fox’s appointment as Chief Judge of Te Kooti Whenua Māori | Māori Land Court.
Chief Judge Fox (Ngāti Porou, Rongowhakaata, Te Whānau a Apanui) is the 17th Chief Judge of the Māori Land Court, and the first wahine Māori to hold the role.
The Chief Justice notes Chief Judge Fox’s long and exemplary service to the Court. Chief Judge Fox was appointed as Māori Land Court Judge in 2000, and as Deputy Chief Judge in 2010. Of the appointment, the Chief Justice said:
“The role that Judge Fox now assumes as Chief Judge of the Māori Land Court is a role of great responsibility. The Māori Land Court is one of the oldest courts in New Zealand and the work it does is central to the fabric of the Māori community, and the Māori economy.”
“Judges who sit in this jurisdiction bring knowledge and a perspective that is critical to the New Zealand judiciary and New Zealand law. The Court’s role is unique in the common law world, and in our constitutional arrangements.”
“Chief Judge Fox has all the qualities, character and ability necessary to take on this responsibility. She is an experienced judge, a distinguished scholar and a leader.”
Chief Judge Fox’s biography is available on the Māori Land Court website.
