Chris (Te Whakapiko o Ngāti Manaia, Ngāti Wai, Ma’ufanga, Niua) is a Partner at Meredith Connell. An experienced litigator and youth advocate, he has significant experience working with rangatahi, whānau, community groups and organisations in dispute resolution and restorative processes. He has held roles as counsel to assist the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care (Māori Investigation), inquiry lawyer on a major independent inquiry, and Deputy Chair of the Teacher’s Disciplinary Tribunal.
Chris leads a team of lawyers who’s focus is assisting people to navigate Te Ao Māori and Pacific legal intersections across a wide range of contexts. He is part of Te Korimako Legal Education and Folau He Vahanoa, Māori and Pacific kaupapa that deliver free legal education to Māori and Pacific NGO’s, community providers, and iwi working with whānau in the community. He is a former judicial and appeals officer to two provincial Rugby Unions. A speaker of te reo Māori, Chris ensures tikanga Māori and te reo Māori are properly considered and incorporated in his work.
To enquire about Chris assisting with a sport or recreation complaint or dispute please call 0800 493 612 with no obligation to proceed.