Distinguished alumni series: Chief Judge Heemi Taumaunu with Professor Rawinia Higgins

Victoria University of Wellington - Podcast

Aged sixteen, Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington distinguished alumnus, now Chief Judge of the District Court, Heemi Taumaunu (Ngāti Porou—Ngāti Konohi, Ngāi Tahu) joined the Army. When he was 21, his father came to see him at the army camp, and told him he should think about going to law school. Professor Rawinia Higgins (Ngāi Tūhoe), Tumu Ahurei—Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Māori) and Toihau—Chair of Te Taura whiri i te reo Māori—Māori Language Commission, speaks to Judge Taumaunu about his experiences studying at Te Herenga Waka, and how he has sought to make the courts fairer for all through implementation of Ngā Kōti Rangatahi o Aotearoa, the Rangatahi courts.