A well-known barrister from Whanganui has just stepped into a big new role in the justice system. Bernadette Arapere is now a District Court Judge, and she will start hearing cases in Hastings very soon.
Who is the New Judge?
Bernadette belongs to Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa and Ngāti Maniapoto. She started practising law in 2005 after getting admitted to the bar. Early in her career she worked as a director at a law firm in Auckland called Wackrow Williams and Davies Limited. Later she moved to Wellington and joined the Crown Law Office where she served as Crown Counsel.
In 2021 she decided to go independent and set up her own practice at the bar. That move gave her the chance to take on a wide variety of cases.
Wide Experience in Different Areas of Law
Over the years Bernadette has built a solid name in public law and administrative matters. She also handles Treaty of Waitangi issues and regular court litigation. People trust her enough to appoint her as counsel who helps the court itself in complex hearings.
She has argued cases in every level of the court system, right up to the Supreme Court. That kind of track record shows how capable she is when tough legal questions come up.
Important Roles Outside the Courtroom
Away from regular court work, Bernadette serves as a Commissioner at the Transport Accident Investigation Commission. She is also the Deputy Chair of the Teachers Disciplinary Tribunal. Both jobs need a sharp mind for fair decisions and clear thinking under pressure.
What the Attorney-General Said
Judith Collins, the Attorney-General, made the announcement herself. She pointed out that Bernadette brings exactly the kind of depth and balance the bench needs. Having someone with her background in Hastings will help local people get justice that understands their community.
When and Where the Swearing-In Happens
The official ceremony is set for 29 November. After that day Bernadette will sit at the Hastings District Court full time. Residents in the Hawke’s Bay region can expect to see her handling a mix of criminal, family and civil cases.
Why This Appointment Matters
Every new judge shapes how justice feels on the ground. In a place like Hastings, where farming, orchards and Maori communities mix, having a judge who knows Treaty issues and public law makes a real difference. It means decisions are more likely to respect both the law and local values.
Bernadette’s journey from Auckland firm director to Crown Law to independent barrister shows steady growth. She kept learning and taking on harder challenges. Now she gets to guide others through the legal system with the same care.
Looking Ahead for the Hastings Court
With this appointment the Hastings court gains a judge who has seen law from many angles. Whether it is a dispute over land rights, a review of government action or a family matter, she has the tools to handle it fairly.
People in the area will soon have their first chance to watch her in action. The swearing-in on 29 November marks the start of a new chapter, not just for Bernadette but for everyone who walks through the court doors in Hastings.
As the justice system keeps evolving, appointments like this one remind us that experience and fairness still count the most. The Hawke’s Bay community has good reason to feel confident about the bench.
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Meta description: Bernadette Arapere appointed District Court Judge in Hastings by Judith Collins. Experienced barrister brings public law and Treaty expertise to the bench.