District court judge joins Big Brothers Big Sisters

District court judge joins Big Brothers Big Sisters

*Board strengthened with appointment of Judge Rob Murfitt*

15 September 2011. Christchurch.

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Christchurch has announced the appointment of district court judge Rob Murfitt to its Trust Board.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to add someone of Judge Murfitt’s calibre to our organisation,” said BBBS Chairman Tim Webster, in announcing the appointment.

“As a well-regarded district court judge, and an innovator in the area of youth justice and social services, he brings huge credibility to our organisation.”

“Judge Murfitt played a key role in establishing Big Brothers Big Sisters in Taranaki, which has been incredibly successful, so he comes to us with both an appreciation of the value of mentoring and how to make it work.”

Judge Murfitt began sitting on the Christchurch District Court in 2010, after six years as a family court judge based in New Plymouth.

Prior to being appointed to the bench, Judge Murfitt practised as litigator and then a family law specialist. He completed his law degree from the University of Canterbury in 1971 and was admitted to the bar the following year.

Acknowledged as innovator in the justice system, Judge Murfitt helped promote a “Rangitahi Court” based at a marae in the Taranaki town of Waitara, which lead to the improved engagement of youth offenders and their whanau.

Judge Murfitt was also executive producer of the award-winning documentary “Hiding Behind the Green Screen,” named best New Zealand short documentary at the 2011 Edge Film Festival.

*About Big Brothers Big Sisters Christchurch*

Big Brothers Big Sisters matches adult mentors – all of whom are volunteers - with a suitable child (typically aged between 8-13 years), who they meet with once a week. Part of a national and international network, Big Brothers Big Sisters currently supports over 80 mentoring relationships at across the city in schools and in the community.

Funding locally is provided by Christchurch City Council, Wayne Francis Trust, Canterbury Community Trust, Lottery Grants, COGS, The Blogg Charitable Trust.

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