14 Nov 2017
Leave to appeal was declined because the applicant's 21‑year delay was gross and inadequately explained, the applicant had means and knowledge to pursue an appeal by 1998, the proposed grounds lacked merit, and the prejudice to the Crown and the public interest in finality (including destroyed evidence and deceased counsel) outweighed any utility in granting leave.
9 Apr 2014
Section 4 of the Māori Language Act 1987 gives counsel appearing before the Waitangi Tribunal the right to speak te reo Māori whether or not witnesses understand it; however the Tribunal may lawfully regulate the exercise of that right by imposing reasonable procedural conditions (including requiring notice, managing interpreter availability and controlling hearing time) consistent with its powers to manage inquiry proceedings. Although it was not open to the presiding officer to require questions be asked in English as a matter of law, the court declined to grant relief setting aside the rul…