Those were the words of Miharo Murihiku Trust director Pauline Smith at the swearing-in of district court Judge Mike Mika at the High Court at Invercargill yesterday.
In a ceremony which blended Samoan, Maori and European cultures, song and stories, yesterday’s ceremony was about acknowledgement and thanks.
In a packed court room, Judge Mika was sworn in by Chief District Court Judge Heemi Taumaunu.
Judge Taumaunu said Judge Mika was entering at a challenging time for district court judges as the system was about to go through a phase of meaningful change through the Te Ao Marama model.
"At the same time it should be an exciting and momentous time."
The ceremony acknowledged the work Judge Mika had done with the Miharo Murihiku Trust, ILT and ILT Foundation — and also his service as president of the James Hargest College Rugby Club.
Southland Crown solicitor and Preston Russell Law director Mary-Jane Thomas told how Judge Mika, who played for Otago, Southland, the Highlanders and Manu Samoa, was employed because she thought he would play for the Blues Rugby Club, and help them to win the Galbraith Shield.
"You did none of those things for me, but I forgive you."
Later Judge Mika confirmed it was not a misrepresentation when he failed to tell Ms Thomas about his shot knees, just an omission.
Ms Thomas said he was also the one who took extra care with people. When she would leave early from a work function, Judge Mika would text, "all home safe boss?"
"I’m really going to miss you sir, because I’m going to miss the face that I knew that made sure everyone got home safe."
Judge Mika acknowledged his parents, who had moved to New Zealand in the 1960s.
"Mum and Dad, this day is about you and your sacrifices and the sacrifices that we will always acknowledge and be extremely grateful for."
He also thanked his wife Jane and son Jacob.
"Jacob your mother and I are very proud of you, son."
"Thank you for being the best son a father could ever hope for."
He called his wife the rock of their family and the one who had always encouraged him to strive for more.
"Without your love, I wouldn’t be about to do this."
