The New Zealand High Court continues to be strengthened with the recent appointment of three distinguished legal professionals to the bench. These appointments reflect a continued investment in judicial depth, regional representation, and legal leadership across complex domains.
Justice Simon Mount – Appointed 1 June 2025 (Auckland)
Justice Mount brings to the bench more than two decades of experience spanning public, criminal, and regulatory law. A former Crown prosecutor and respected barrister, he’s also served as Visiting Justice and District Inspector for Mental Health — roles requiring balanced judgment and deep human insight. His appointment signals a continued emphasis on thoughtful adjudication in high-pressure areas.
Associate Judge Liz Gellert – Appointed 13 June 2025
Previously a litigation partner with Bell Gully, Associate Judge Gellert brings a sharp commercial lens to the court. Her practice focused on banking, finance, insolvency, and professional liability — expertise that will be pivotal as financial and regulatory complexity continues to evolve across civil jurisdictions.
Justice James MacGillivray – To Commence 1 August 2025 (Auckland)
A senior barrister based in the Waikato, Justice MacGillivray has led significant litigation across aviation liability, professional negligence, and contractual disputes. His experience advocating across a range of courts — both domestic and international — gives him a uniquely cross-disciplinary legal lens, well suited to the increasingly globalised nature of law.