Chief District Court Judge Russell Johnson has died today after a short illness.
Chief Justice Dame Sian Elias said the Chief Judge was an outstanding judicial leader and a dear friend and cherished colleague to all judges, across all courts.
"Chief Judge Johnson was someone who exercised the authority of office scrupulously, with care for all and no airs. He was generous, good-humoured, and measured in all he did. He was a fine lawyer and, as Chief Judge, led from the front."
Dame Elias said Judge Johnson took the mission of the District Courts very seriously and worked to serve all communities.
He was also an accomplished judicial administrator, earning the admiration of officials and the heads of other benches, as well as the gratitude of his own judges, she said.
"Russell Johnson was great New Zealander. He was a man of great kindness and decency who loved his country and its people. He is a loss to us all. Those who were privileged to work with him and call him a friend feel particularly bereft. And their thoughts and love are with Margaret Johnson and the family."
http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/5332933/Chief-District-Court-Judge-dies-after-illness
