‘The Māori Land Court will benefit from their skills,’ says minister
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Damian Stone and Terena Wara have been appointed as judges of the Māori Land Court, while Patrick Savage has been reappointed as acting judge, Māori Development Minister Hon Nanaia Mahuta has announced.
“Damian Stone and Terena Wara are highly capable lawyers and have the necessary skills and expertise to fulfil the role. They have built strong reputations working with whānau through their private practice,” Mahuta said. “Judge Patrick Savage has proven qualities as an experienced Māori Land Court judge.”
Stone, who has extensive commercial, Māori Land Court, and Waitangi Tribunal experience, was managing partner of Kāhui Legal. Wara, who also has significant experience in both the Māori Land Court and the Waitaingi Tribunal, was a director at Tū Pono Legal. Savage has served on the bench since 1994.
“The Māori Land Court bench will benefit from their skills in the important role it plays for Māori land owners,” Mahuta said. “Whenua is a fundamental component of Māori culture, providing a sense of identity and belonging for current and future generations and this is recognised and supported by the Māori Land Court.”
