Wellington, NZ — Justice Owen Paulsen, who served as Lord Chief Justice of the Kingdom of Tonga from 2015 to 2019, has been appointed as a High Court Judge in New Zealand, effective 15 November 2025.
He will sit in Christchurch, continuing a distinguished legal career that spans more than three decades across the Pacific.
Justice Paulsen’s tenure in Tonga marked a significant chapter in his judicial service.
As Lord Chief Justice, he was the professional head of the Tongan judiciary, President of both the Court of Appeal and the Land Court, and a Privy Council advisor to His Majesty King Tupou VI on land matters.
His contributions to the Tongan legal system were formally recognised when he was awarded membership in The Most Devoted Royal Household Order of Tonga, an honour bestowed by the King.
During his time in Tonga, Justice Paulsen was known for strengthening judicial independence, modernising court procedures, and upholding the rule of law in a complex constitutional environment.
His leadership was instrumental in navigating high-profile cases and reinforcing public confidence in the judiciary.
Justice Paulsen began his legal career after graduating with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Canterbury, later becoming a partner at Harman & Co from 1991 to 1998.
He served as an adjudicator and mediator for the Employment Tribunal from 2000 to 2001, while also practising as a litigation lawyer.
From 2001 to 2014, he was a partner at Cavell Leitch Law, and in 2011, he earned a Master of Laws (Commercial Law) with First Class Honours from the University of Auckland.
Following his return from Tonga, Justice Paulsen was appointed an Associate Judge of the High Court of New Zealand in 2019, where he has presided over complex commercial and civil matters.
His elevation to High Court Judge reflects his deep legal expertise, commitment to justice, and broad experience across both New Zealand and the Pacific.
