Yesterday’s quip, though, by Judge Joanna Maze at the outset of her final day sitting at the Dunedin District Court was made with tongue firmly in cheek.
The judge of more than 20 years, who spends most of her time at the Timaru District Court, was showered with gifts yesterday to mark the occasion.
Before local lawyer Rhona Daysh launched into her speech, Judge Maze showed she was clearly touched by the gesture.
"If you make me cry I’ll hold you in contempt of court," she said.
"You’ll go to the cells."
Ms Daysh was willing to risk it.
She praised Judge Maze for her "patience, humility and courage ... clear eyes and alertness".
"I think you’ve got those qualities in bucket-loads, and you’re an inspiration," Ms Daysh said.
She dubbed her "the defendants’ darling" but the judge was quick to point out her impartiality.
"There are many occasions where the prosecution has succeeded in my court," she said.
Judge Maze said it was impossible to be effective without the assistance of all other parties involved in the justice system.
"You cannot have successful proceedings without everybody taking their part and a good prosecution service and a good bar is absolutely essential," she said.
"We’re all in this together."
Judge Maze was admitted to the bar in 1977 and practised in Nelson, dividing her attention between criminal, family and civil matters.
She was made a judge in 2001.
