The strangest case Katharine Taurau ever worked on involved people wanting to create a private lake out of the sea.
What made you decide to become a lawyer?I wanted to be a politician when I was at school, but switched to law when I realised that my interest was really in helping people in a more personal way.
How long have you worked at McLeods and what brought you to this position?
My family moved north in 2005 and I worked here for 2 years from 2007-2009 and then returned again last November after working as a barrister sole for 5 or so years.
What’s the strangest case you’ve ever worked on/been involved with?
A case where people wanted to create a private lake out of the sea…
If you could invite three people for dinner, dead or alive and excluding family and friends, who would they be and why?
Nigel Hampton QC because he taught on course I attended and he had many interesting stories to tell. Alicia Keyes because she could sing for us and Peter Gordon to cook (all my guests have to contribute!)
Where’s the best place to go for a drink and/or dinner after work in Kerikeri?
Wharepuke, the Village Café, consistently good food and coffee.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given (work or personal)?
Steer straight and don’t look back.
Do you have any hobbies/interests outside of work?
My husband and children and lots of reading.
Complete this sentence: If I wasn’t a lawyer, I would be…
An interior designer.
What do you think is the single biggest issue facing the legal space in New Zealand in 2015?
Access to justice.
If you had John Key’s job for one day, what would you do?
Put more money into the legal aid budget.
What do you love about your job?
The people, colleagues and clients - they bring variety and challenges every day.
What would you change about your job right now if you could?
I am pretty happy, but would like a few more hours in the day.
