There are people who you meet in life that are just destined for greatness. Judge Ida Malosi is one, and everyone she comes across knows this, from her peers, family members, and even those who stand accused in the court give her the utmost respect.
A trailblazer, Judge Ida Malosi broke early stereotypes not only becoming a lawyer, but eventually the first Pacific female judge, and continues to be one of only a handful of Pasifika judges here in New Zealand. Her work in the Family Court and the creation of the Pasifika Youth Court has had a profound effect on our community.
- Director Vea Mafileo
It is hard to choose what to exclude from the life and times of our sister Ida. Director Vea Mafileo wrote this about her several years ago, how prophetic it was, especially now as Ida leaves our common room and heads south to Wellington to become the executive judge for the District Court. A brilliant appointment for New Zealand but our loss, keenly felt.
“No sad songs,” she said, and “No farewells.” We gave her that. But who is our Ida? Well, with a commanded light touch, read this getting to know you interview and find out:
JANZ: Tell us about you and your family and why you live where you live.
Judge Ida Malosi: Husband, three children, and one thoroughly indulged cat. Our family home is in Auckland — love the fact it is the biggest Polynesian city in the world.
How did you come to study law?
Like many others, quite by accident. My ambition was to be a teacher.
How was it first being appointed to the bench?
A huge wrench leaving my all-women, all–Maori and Pasifika law firm. It could not have been a starker contrast of work environments. Clearly, I have grown to love it just as much, given I am still here all these years later!
What interests do/did you enjoy outside of your job?
Triathlons and synchronised swimming, but when I’m awake as opposed to just dreaming of those things, family and friends in big doses.
What’s the best purchase you’ve ever made?
I was trying to think of something deep and meaningful, but the shallow answer has to be real estate in Auckland.
What’s your favourite dish to cook at home?
Desserts.
What’s your favourite quote, and who’s it from?
Since I’ve been on Zooms with a lot of young people during lockdown, my favourite quote at the moment is from none other than Tupac Shakur (according to Mr Google). “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve read or seen lately?
‘Legal Systems of the Pacific: Introducing Sixteen Gems’ edited by Emeritus Professors Jennifer Corrin and Tony Angelo QC, which is an overview of the legal systems of a selection of Pacific Island countries.
Why do you think it’s important for judges to know and support each other?
Because only we understand the very unique pressure points of this role. I can attest from my own experience that the support of judicial friends and colleagues has been my lifejacket.
How’s Wellington treating you?
Wonderfully 😊
Well, now the interview’s over — for once I get the last word! Or at least I get our own poet laureate, John Adams to have that honour from this poem he wrote:
To Ida
It means sharp, you say: Malosi,
like the sharp strength of pepper,
and you should know: sharpness
cut your flesh to scars of honour
and I’ve seen you withstand
the pecks of stickybeaks.
But your true sharpness,
if honey can be sharp,
is in the sharpness of honey
collected by big Samoan bees
over centuries, now stored in you,
and ladled generously by your hand;
a balm, bearing all such bitterness
of grace that only nectar brings;
a syrup of sufficient
sharpness to season all our kind.