Page 7 - Southwell School_The Chronicle December 2022

Graduation 2016 Carolyn Davidson, Bev McMaster and Kate at prefects commissioning in 2005.
partially achieved these goals! In 2020, I got married to my high school sweetheart, Ross. It was such a fun and loved filled day. We are expecting our first child, due in December 2022, which we are both very excited about.
Becoming a lawyer. Straight after I left school, I started studying a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Social Sciences, majoring in Environmental Planning at the University of Waikato. In 2016 I was admitted to the bar as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand. I was lucky to dip my toes into lots of different areas and discover what I really loved.
It quickly became apparent to me that employment law was what I really wanted to do. I have acted on some truly interesting cases, achieved some amazing outcomes and along the way thoroughly enjoyed myself – which is what it should be about.
Travel. I have been so lucky in my life to have some amazing experiences travelling in New Zealand but also overseas. The most memorable would have to be a school trip to Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore when I was about 17 years old. It was a special experience, particularly going to the Killing Fields and learning about Cambodia’s tragic (but recent) history was a real eye opener. Shortly after I graduated, I spent about a month travelling around Europe and had the time of my life!
As a lawyer at Edwards Law today, what do you specialise in?
Employment Law. Although employment law is extremely specialised, it has a real range of issues and no matter is ever the same.
My work encapsulates anything from avoiding, raising, defending and resolving personal grievances, drafting employment documents (such as policies, employment agreements, contractor agreements, records of settlement and employee share programmes), advice and assistance on restructuring, disciplinary and performance processes, medical incapacity processes, and representing parties in mediation, the Employment Relations Authority, Human Rights Review Tribunal, Employment Court, District Court and various disciplinary tribunals.
How do you like to relax?
Yoga, walking, swimming at the beach, hanging out with friends and family.
What hobbies or pursuits do you enjoy regularly?
Water skiing, mountain biking and walking.
What motivates you to be your best self at home, work & when with others?
My motivator has changed a lot over time. I would say when I first started studying and working it was a drive for perfection. But I have learnt perfection is not really attainable and there is always room for improvement!