New District Court Judges Leighvi Maynard and Nicola Graham Appointed in NZ
Attorney-General Hon Chris Bishop has appointed Leighvi Maynard of Gisborne and Nicola Graham of Napier as District Court Judges. Mr Maynard has extensive experience in criminal law, prosecution, and defense, having worked in various legal roles since 2006 and co-founded Rāwhiti Legal in 2024, while Ms Graham has a strong background as a crown prosecutor, sole practitioner, and Youth Advocate. Judge Maynard will serve at Napier District Court, sworn in on 21 November 2026, and Judge Graham will serve at Hamilton District Court, sworn in on 14 December 2026.