2 February 2006
Chairperson of the Waitangi Tribunal Re-Appointed
The Minister of Mâori Affairs, Hon Parekura Horomia has today announced the re-appointment of Joseph Victor Williams,
Chief Judge of the Maori Land Court, as Chairperson of the Waitangi Tribunal for a further year.
"Chief Judge Williams has made a significant contribution to the Tribunal and has introduced a number of innovations
that have assisted the Tribunal's inquiries into Treaty claims" said Mr Horomia.
Prior to his appointment as Chief Judge of the Maori Land Court, Chief Judge Williams was a founding partner of Walters
Williams and Company, a successful law firm where he specialised in environmental, public and Maori law. While in
private practice he worked closely with Maori communities and leaders.
Chief Judge Williams has a sound knowledge and understanding of tikanga Maori and is a well-known and respected member
of the judiciary. Chief Judge Williams is of Ngati Pukenga and Te Arawa descent.
ENDS