Ian Barker

Sir Richard Ian Barker (17 March 1934 – 11 November 2022) was a New Zealand jurist. His legal career spanned over six decades. He was a lawyer for 20 years, followed by 20 years as a judge at the High Court, before he worked for another two decades as a mediator and arbitrator. Barker was involved in the law reform in the Cook Islands.

Early life Barker was born in Taumarunui on 17 March 1934.

Legal career Barker was admitted to the bar in 1958. He was a barrister and solicitor from then onwards. From 1960 to 1969, he was a partner at Morpeth Gould and Co in Auckland. Between 1969 and 1976, he was a barrister working by himself. During this time, in 1973, he was appointed a Queen's Counsel. In 1976, he was appointed as a judge to the High Court.

Honours Barker was appointed a Knight Bachelor in the 1994 New Year Honours. He received an honorary doctorate (LLD) from the University of Auckland in 1999.