NZ Bar Association congratulates Justice Winkelmann

The New Zealand Bar Association congratulates the Hon. Justice Helen Winkelmann on her appointment as Chief Justice of New Zealand and as a Judge of the Supreme Court. The appointment takes effect from 13 March 2019.

“A former Chief High Court Judge, Justice Winkelmann is known both for her judicial intellect and her leadership of the judiciary and wider profession,” says NZBA President Kate Davenport QC. “She has represented the New Zealand judiciary internationally, including through her involvement as a member of the Board of the Australasian Institute of Judicial Administration.”

The Bar Association endorses the comments made by the Prime Minister about the enormous esteem in which Justice Winkelmann is held by the legal community and the high degree of consensus from all quarters for her appointment.

“In her time as Chief High Court Judge, Justice Winkelmann was described by many as a visionary in introducing reforms to court processes and her strong leadership was appreciated by all,” says Ms Davenport.

In recent years, Justice Winkelmann has spoken out about the need to protect access to justice for all and ensure diversity across all levels of the profession and the legal system. Ms Davenport notes that the Judge has also been active in supporting training for the bar and encouraging juniors in the profession to step up in Court.

“The bar warmly welcomes Her Honour’s appointment,” says Ms Davenport. “She has been greatly respected during her time on the High Court and Court of Appeal benches and we have confidence that she will be an excellent Chief Justice.”

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