Mourners farewell 'role-model' judge

Karina Williams

More than 1000 mourners, including a number of the country's leading judges, gathered yesterday to farewell Judge Karina Raewyn Roimata Williams.

The highly regarded judge, only the second Maori woman to become a district court judge, died on Friday after a short illness. She was 43.

Courts in Waitakere and Manukau were reduced to skeleton staff, with most cases adjourned to allow judges and court staff to attend their colleague's funeral.

Judge Williams was described as a role model for both Maori and non-Maori New Zealanders for her commitment and achievement.

A close friend, Catriona MacLennan, described her passing as a tragedy for a woman who had earned the respect of all she came into contact with.

Judge Williams was a passionate advocate for improving the violent and poverty-stricken areas of South Auckland and a staunch voice for her community.

"She was a trail-blazer and such a role model for others to follow. Her humility and ability to communicate made her a much-loved member of her community and within the courts system."

Chief District Court Judge Russell Johnston described Judge Williams as "the rainbow judge", a reference to the multi-ethnic make-up of judges in the Manukau District Court and the end of the dominance of mainly white males.

Friend and Labour MP John Tamihere said he was one of hundreds to pay their respects to Judge Williams and her whanau during her three-day tangi at Manurewa Marae.

"She was a woman with no divisions. She was a peacemaker who could get along with everyone. It is such a waste she has been taken from us at such a young age."

Of Tuhoe, Whakatohea, Te Aupouri, Tainui and Ngaitai descent, Judge Williams was a strong advocate of Maori culture, including kapa haka, and was heavily involved in the settlement of tribal treaty claims.

An avid sportswoman, she was educated at St Cuthbert's College and Auckland University before being admitted to the Bar in 1993.

The daughter of Tawhirimatea and Kaa Williams, she is survived by husband Richard Te Hunia and daughter Kataraina, 12.