Auckland Crown Prosecutor Brett Tantrum Appointed High Court Judge

Justice Tantrum brings more than two decades of legal experience across commercial litigation, criminal prosecution, appellate advocacy and public law.

Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Auckland barrister and solicitor Brett Donald Tantrum as a Judge of the High Court.

Justice Tantrum will take up his new role on 30 March 2026, and will be based in Auckland.

Extensive Career in Criminal and Public Law

Justice Tantrum brings more than two decades of legal experience across commercial litigation, criminal prosecution, appellate advocacy and public law.

He graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) in 2000, beginning his career at Bell Gully as part of the firm’s commercial litigation team.

Longstanding Service as a Crown Prosecutor

In August 2002, Justice Tantrum joined Auckland Crown Solicitor Meredith Connell, where he has built a distinguished prosecution career.

He became a partner in 2011 and has served as a Principal Crown Prosecutor since 2017.

Over his career, he has led major prosecutions involving some of New Zealand’s most serious criminal offending.

His expertise includes:

• Criminal appeals in the Court of Appeal

• Homicide prosecutions

• Organised crime, including commercial drug offending

• Money laundering cases

• Serious sexual violence trials

Justice Tantrum is also a member of the Serious Fraud Office prosecutors’ panel.

International Prosecution Experience in Australia

In 2006, Justice Tantrum participated in a professional exchange programme with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Sydney.

He was admitted to the bar in New South Wales and prosecuted cases involving:

• Sexual violation

• Fraud

• Serious violence

• Drug-related offences

Crown Law Secondment and Appellate Work

From 2009 to 2010, Justice Tantrum was seconded to Crown Law, appearing for the Crown in a range of criminal appeals.

He has also practised in public and administrative law, including judicial review and regulatory proceedings, adding breadth to his legal background.

Appointment Effective March 2026

Justice Tantrum’s appointment will strengthen the High Court bench with significant expertise in complex criminal and appellate matters.

He will formally assume office on 30 March 2026 and will sit in Auckland.