7741 (2026). Francisco Hernandez to the Minister of Justice

7741 (2026). Francisco Hernandez to the Minister of Justice: What process, if any, was followed for the appointment of Professor Amokura Kawharu as Law Commission President?

Hon Paul Goldsmith: As noted in the answers to WPQs 7415, 7416 and 7417, this appointment was made under a previous government. I am advised by my officials (and as also noted in the answers to the previous questions) that the process in that case was to seek nominations from the Attorney-General, the Ministers for Māori Development and Māori/Crown Relations, the Chief Justice and the New Zealand Law Society. Following that, two candidates were shortlisted for interview by a selection panel comprised of a Judge of the Supreme Court, the Secretary for Justice and the Solicitor-General. Following receipt of a report from the panel, the then Minister of Justice recommended the appointment of Associate Professor Kawharu.