V.Alum December 2025
Every year V.Alum tells the stories of our vibrant community at Te Kauhanganui Tātai Ture. We hope you enjoy this end-of-year update. Please take a few minutes to read about our wonderful research, alumni achievements, and Faculty celebrations. Happy reading!
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Welcome to V.Alum 2025 from the Dean of Law
Professor Geoff McLay, Dean of Te Kauhanganui Tātai Ture—Faculty of Law, welcomes readers to this edition of V.Alum and reflects on 2025.
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The year in review from our research centres
Our faculty, including our research centres, produce leading research which create real impact for local, national, and global communities.
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New book unpacks law of the sea
In an exciting new book, Professor Joanna Mossop shares insights from her experience in shaping real-world law and policy about global ocean governance.
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The art of advocacy and making a difference
Margie Beattie's career has taken a few twists and turns. But, she credits her law degree with teaching her the skills to tackle many challenges.
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Finding her voice—Toilolo Leilani Taula’s journey from Te Herenga Waka to Yale
Whether Toilolo Leilani Taula is walking into a courtroom or standing on stage with her guitar, she embodies the belief that words—and stories—have power.
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New faces at the Faculty—Introducing Dr Ignacio Giuffré
Originally from Argentina, Dr Ignacio Giuffré brings his expertise in constitutionalism and deliberative democracy to both Aotearoa and the Faculty of Law.
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The year in review from our Māori and Pasifika student-led groups
Our student-led groups are dedicated to creating an inclusive and nurturing environment for Māori and Pasifika students at the Faculty of Law.
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VUWLSS 2026—Changing of the guard
The Victoria University of Wellington Law Students’ Society (VUWLSS) plays a crucial role in fostering community and providing support for our law students.
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New Faculty Club and Law Students' Society Presidents honours board unveiled
The new Law Faculty Club and Victoria University of Wellington Law Students’ Society (VUWLSS) honours board was unveiled at a ceremony held on 23 November.
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Opinion—Why imposing voting ban on prisoners is flawed
Voting should not be seen as a privilege but a fundamental right that lasts throughout imprisonment, argue Hedwig Eisenbarth, Ti Lamusse, and Yvette Tinsley.
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Opinion—AI companies want copyright exemptions—for NZ creatives, a licensing market is their best protection
In much the same way a shop or bar pays a fee to play background music, AI licences would help copyright owners earn an income, writes Graeme Austin.
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Opinion—NZ’s native lizards are at risk from land development—future policy must ensure better protection
Pressures imposed by human land uses are a serious threat to our native lizards, write Christopher Woolley, Catherine Iorns, Jono Sylvester, and Nicola Nelson.
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Highly regarded international legal scholar and academic leader farewelled
The Faculty of Law marks the passing of Tony Smith by reflecting on his remarkable life and enduring contribution to the legal profession.
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Remembering Catherine Callaghan KC
Fellow alumna Joanna Silver (LLB 1996) and members of the Faculty of Law pay tribute to their esteemed friend and colleague Catherine Callaghan.
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Publications in 2025
This year, as always, our colleagues have produced world-leading publications and taught over 2000 students—making Aotearoa and the world a better place.
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Awards, Honours, and Appointments in 2025
Congratulations to all those in our community—students, staff, and alumni—who have been recognised with awards, honours, and appointments this year.
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Thank you to our generous donors
We thank those who contribute so much to the fabric and the life of this Faculty.
Watch—Our 2025 public lectures
Public lectures are at the heart of our community engagement. Watch this year's selection of philanthropically-funded and inaugural lectures.