In Memoriam: Philip Recordon (1948 – 2024)

It is with deep sadness that we note the passing of Philip Recordon on 21 March 2024. He will be remembered for his significant contribution over the span of his illustrious career, his personable nature, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him. As one of four inaugural recipients of the Saint Kentigern Distinguished Alumni Awards in 2022, Phil was recognised for his remarkable accomplishments in the field of law and judiciary, along with his substantial influence on various community groups.

Phil was appointed to the District Court Bench in 2003, with his last judgement being in March last year. Prior to that he practised in Auckland, particularly in South Auckland for over 30 years. While much of his work was in the Family Court jurisdiction, it extended into the areas of criminal law with a concentration on youth. He had the privilege of participating in Marae gatherings with Kaumatua and Pasifika elders, and sat in the Rangatahi and Pasifika Youth Courts.

He was also active in a wide variety of community-based organisations, including the Auckland Council for Civil Liberties, New Zealand Lawyers for Nuclear Disarmament (Founder and First President), Lifeline, Richmond Fellowship, The Right Track and Māori and Pacific Wardens aiding disadvantaged or minority groups.

He was one of the lawyers who, in 1985 brought a case against the New Zealand Rugby Union to stop an All Blacks tour of South Africa.

For many years, Phil served as trustee on several mental health and Māori health trusts. These organisations include Wings Trust, Eduk8 Charitable Trust (Chairman), Safe Man Safe Family Charitable Trust, Te Papapa School, Tufuga Creative Arts (Mental Health) Trust, Otara Māori Wardens, and Tāmaki Mataurau Pacific Wardens Trust.

We would like to express our deepest sympathy to his wife Geneviève, children and their families for their loss.

A celebration of life service in memory of Phil will be held on Saturday 6th April, 10.30am at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell.