New disputes adjudicator appointed

Auckland barrister Brett Carter has been appointed as a motor vehicle disputes tribunal adjudicator by the Governor-General for a five year term beginning February 15. Carter is formerly a chief adviser at the Commerce Commission, where he worked for 10 years. “Mr Carter’s extensive legal background and experience in fair trading, credit and consumer laws will be particularly valuable to the Tribunal, which hears disputes between consumers and car dealers or other registered and unregistered motor vehicle traders,” said Jacqui Dean, the minister of commerce and consumer affairs. Carter will mostly hear cases in Auckland and the Northern North Island. He takes the role of Christopher Cornwell, who recently stepped down as an adjudicator after more than 10 years in the role. Dean also acknowledged Cornwell’s service in her statement.