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\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10097133 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE COOK ISLANDS }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4542181 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4542181 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10097133 HELD AT RAROTONGA \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13388808 (CIVIL}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10097133 DIVISION) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5006224 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Plaint No. 57}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8347697 /}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 08}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 BETWEEN}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5006224 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid4094775 R TUPANGAIA}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640\charrsid4094775 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Plaintiff}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 AND}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5006224 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid4094775 TAAKOKA ISLAND VILLAS LIMITED \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 First Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5006224 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 AND}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10499640 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10499640 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid4094775 K CLARK \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Second Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql 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{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11605296\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Counsel:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Mr Vakalalabure for Plaintiff \par Mr Morley for First Defendant (a party served) and the Second and Third Defendants (as parties cited but not served)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11605296\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Judgment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4542181\charrsid14173935 : 18}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 March 2009 (NZT)}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11605296\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8347697 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid11605296 JUDGMENT OF THE COURT (DECLARING PROCEEDING A NULLITY}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 )}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11605296 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11605296\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid11605296 Introduction \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11605296\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [1]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 There is an application before me to declare this proceeding a nullity and to strike out or dismiss the claim.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2834278\charrsid14173935 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid2834278 Statement of claim \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2834278\charrsid2834278 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1316145 [2]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 On 9 July 2008 Mr Travis Moore, describing himself as agent of}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8347697 the plaintiff, purported to fil}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 e a statement of claim in the Civil Division o}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10492131 f the High Court of the Cook Isl}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10492131\charrsid14173935 ands}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4797121 . }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 It was accompanied by a plaint note in Form 10 signed by Mr Moore as agent for the plaintiff.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 The proceeding was accepted for filing by the Registry and ordinary summonses issued in terms of form 11.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10492131\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [3]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 The pleading is not entirely easy to follow but appears to allege that the three defendants are in breach of contract. In the f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7031368 irst cause of action judgment is }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 sought in the sum of $333,000 (plus interest and costs) said to be goodwill payable on 9 July 1996. In the second cause of action, various allegations are made but, in essence, it appears to be said that the defendants are in breach of an agreement made o n 26 November 1986 which required performance on or about 9 July 1996. The damages sought in relation to the second cause of action exceed $2m. This is not a proceeding that could have been brought in the Land division of this Court and Mr Vakala}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6555837 l}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7031368 abure has not argued otherwise. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1726531 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1726531 Subsequent events }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1726531\charrsid1726531 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7031368\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7031368 [4]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 The plaintiff served the first defendant in Rarotonga and the first defendant subsequently filed a statement of defence and lodged an application for security as to costs. No objection was taken by the first defendant to the commencement of the proceeding.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14057112\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11163729\charrsid657499 [5] }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid657499 The second and third defendants reside overseas and would not accept service. Mr Moore then filed an application on 21 August 2008 seeking leave to serve them at a distance. He filed an affidavit in}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 support saying that he was the agent of the plaintiff and authorised by her to make the affidavit.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid657499\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid657499 [6] }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 The matter came before me on 2 October 2008 when I was h}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13966387 earing related proceedings (OA}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13966387 /}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 08) between some of these parties. I noted on the file:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8277444\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10621424 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10621424 "2-1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4797121 0-08. Raised with Messrs Vakalala} {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10621424 bure and Morley and Ms Rokoika at Chambers hearing today on 1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4797121 /08. Mr Vakalal}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10621424 abure is not acting. }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4797121 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10621424 do not believe that Mr Moore can advance litigation in the name of Mrs Tupangaia. He should file a memorandum setting out the basis of his claim to do so. For the avoidance of doubt }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4797121 I}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10621424 do not presently believe that a power of attorney is a sufficient basis. This is to be specifically addressed." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10621424 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10621424\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4797121 [7]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 On 7 October 2008 Mr Moore filed a memorandum which I now set out in full: \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12406881 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid12406881 "1. Mrs Tupangaia had taken advice some time back from a New Zealand Solicitor on the question of the landowners / lessors of the Taakoka Island Villas Limited leasehold never having been paid the goodwill and or the New Zealand principals never having capita lized the company. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14174220 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14174220 2. Just prior to my filing of the claim, that solicitor had as a matter of courtesy and responsibility written to Mrs Tupangaia to remind her that the 12-year limitation on time to file a claim was imminent. \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14174220\charrsid14174220 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6580751 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580751\charrsid6580751 3. T}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4542181 e}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid6580751 Vaka Law at the time was engaged by Mrs Tupanga}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4542181 i}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid6580751 a on several fronts (and of course was engaged with its other clients) and simply did not have the time to study the mountain of documents nor the time to interview the writer and Mrs Tupangaia's son Parau for our intimate knowled ge of the history of the leasehold and the history of the litiga}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4653713 tion that ran from 2004 to 2007.}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid6580751 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580751\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4542181 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid2768997 4. In the circumstances, where the choice was to go outside of the 12 year limitation and hope the Court would in due course allow a filing out of time, the writer took matters into his own hands and prepared the claim as filed.}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2768997\charrsid2768997 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2768997\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10438162 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 5. That is not to say that}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4797121 I}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 did so recklessly or without advice. Once }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10576323 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 had produced the claim, and there were many hours required to do so, }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10576323 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 asked Mr Vakalalabure to peruse the claim. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4542181 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13455334\charrsid10438162 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10438162 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13455334\charrsid10438162 6}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 . Mr Vakalalabure did so, and indicated that }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10576323 I seemed to}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9973529 at}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 least h ave told the story sufficiently for an urgent filing. While}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9973529 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13442999 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 felt obligated to Mrs Tupanga}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4542181 i}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 a to ask Te Vaka Law to put their name to the filing, and did make that request, of course Mr Va}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13442999 kalalabure was not at that 11}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid13442999\charrsid13442999 th}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13442999 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid10438162 hour able to do so and I accepted that.}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10438162\charrsid10438162 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4866197 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid4866197 7. It was never my intention to prosecute}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13523778 the claim, and so at the time I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid4866197 did not seek leave of the Court to act as a non-practitioner if indeed the Court had the power to allow me to do so. For the avoidance of doubt }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13442999 I}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid4866197 do not consider myself qualified nor would }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13523778 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid4866197 purport to advance this matter beyond what was an urgent filing. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4866197\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14484012 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2572552\charrsid600468 8}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid600468 . Prior to turning the file over to Te Vaka Law }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4065824 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid600468 felt I should at least serve the Defendants and successfully served the}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid400824 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14484012 company but as the application to serve at a distance indicates serving the other defendants was not so easy.}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14484012\charrsid14484012 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3413058 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid3413058 9. Mr Morley then f}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403104 iled}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid3413058 , on behalf the company, an application that seemed to put the claim well onto the back burner and that brings us to the present time. Mrs Tupangaia's response to Your Honour's direction has been, through her son and power of attorney Parau Tupanga}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403104 i}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid3413058 a, to direct me to formally instruct Te Vaka Law to advance the matter from this point forward. }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4065824 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid3413058 have done that. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14484012\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5982288 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5982288\charrsid5982288 10}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid5982288 . }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5840390 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid5982288 note that }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5840390 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10970755 have worked within the H}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid5982288 igh Court (Land Division) for some years and that }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9514057 I}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid5982288 have always strived to do so to the best of my limited self}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403104 -}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid5982288 education and experience and take my responsibilities to the Court seriously. When the Law Practitioner's Act 1993-94 was amended earlier this year to require non-practitioners (acting under Sec 61(2) in the Land Division) to esta blish trust accounts for client funds }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9514057 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid5982288 did that within four days of the law taking effect.}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5982288\charrsid5982288 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14033438 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14033438 11. Upon that history and upon that forma}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9514057 l instruction from Mrs Tupangaia}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14033438 and my subsequent formal instruction to Te Vaka Law, }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9514057 I}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14033438 respectfully ask the Court to cons ider that the matter is now in qualified hands and able to be advanced on behalf of Mrs Tupanga}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9514057 i}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14033438 a. " \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14033438\charrsid14033438 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9514057 [8]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I then directed that the application be listed when other litigation between the parties was called before me on 4 November 2008. There is a Minute on the file recording what occurred on that day. In brief, it was not clear whether Mr Vakalalabure actually had instructions (contrary to paragraphs 9 and 11 of the Memorandum) and I gave him leave to take such instructions and to report back by 7 November as to whether he did have those instructions. At paragraph 6 of the Minute I said that it appeared to me at least arguable that the proceeding was a nullity and I stayed the proceeding with leave reserved to any party to apply to have the stay revoked. I directed the first defendant, if it was minded to determine the status of the proceeding, to file any necessary application.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid745292\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [9]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 On 7 November 2008 I received a short memorandum from Mr Vakalalabure confirming he was authorised to act. As far as I can tell, this is the first time}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid745292 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 that Mr Vakalalabure or his firm had formally accepted instructions in relation to this proceeding. That raises considerable issues as to the accuracy of paragraphs 7, 9 and 11 of the Memorandum from Mr Moore.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1968587 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid16397253 The application \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid745292\charrsid16397253 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid16397253 [10] On 4 December 2008 the first defendant brought an application to declare the proceeding a nullity and to dismiss or strike out the proceeding. It sought solicitor/client costs. The first defendant relied upon two grounds:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2185207\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14435479 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [a]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 the proceeding was issued without the prior knowledge, authority or permission of the Official Assignee in New Zealand;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2185207\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [b]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 the proceeding was issued contrary to the provisions of the Judicature Act in that it was not filed by Mrs Tupangaia, a solicitor, or by an agent pursuant to the leave of the Court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14435479\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [11]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Mr Morley filed a detailed memorandum which set out the submissions in support of the application.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Mr Morley started by setting out section 42, Judicature Act 19}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10226889 80-1981, in the following terms:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid215888\charrsid14173935 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid215888 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid215888 "In any proceeding in the High Court, whether civil or criminal, any party thereto may be represented either by a barrister or solicitor or with the leave of the Court, by any other agent, but any such leave}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11100461 may at any time be withdrawn.\'94}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11100461\charrsid215888 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14173935 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16463000 [}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 12]}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Mr Morley empha sised that the proceeding was issued by Mr Moore as agent for the plaintiff and he referred to such portions of the documents as make that clear.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Mr Morley then drew the Court's attention to Mr Moore's memorandum of 7 October including Mr Moore's acknowledgement that he prepared and filed the statement of claim.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8677440\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [13]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Mr Morley noted that Mrs Tupangaia had been made a bankrupt in the High}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16740435 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Court of New Zealand on 15 November 2007.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Her property and powers vested in the Official Assignee in terms of the Insolvency Act 1967 (NZ).}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I accept Mr Morley's submission that that Act applies in relation to a chose in action and that the proceeding described in paragraph [3] above would fall within such a description.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16740435\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [14]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Section}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 655,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Cook}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Islands}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Act}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 1915,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 recognises}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 New Zealand}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403104 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 bankruptcy and}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Mr Morley submitted that the chose in action in the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403104 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 proceeding is property which had fallen into the bankrupt's estate in New Zealand.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16740435\charrsid14173935 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid15553776 Directions on 18 December 2008}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15553776\charrsid15553776 and 5 February 2009}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid15553776 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15553776\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [15]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Various pieces of litigation involving these parties came before me on 18 December 2008. I gave directions on that day, including a direction in this proceeding that Mr Vakalalabure should respond to the first d efendant's application by 4pm on 25 January 2009. Any such response should include submissions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10189052\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [16]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1968587 I}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 did not receive anything from Mr Vakalalabure and at a hearing convened on 5 February 2009 (New Zealand time) I gave Mr Vakalalabure a final opportunity to file a response reservin}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10189052 g to Mr Morley a right of reply.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5785445\charrsid14173935 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid11538295 The }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11538295\charrsid11538295 plaintiff\rquote s}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid11538295 response \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5785445\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [17]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13894467 Mr Vakal}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 alabure's memorandum is dated 12 February 2009.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 He opposed the application.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 His submissions addressed the two grounds relied upon by the first defendant.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15677554\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [18]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 In relation to the bankruptcy, it appeared to be accepted by the plaintiff that there was a defe ct on the part of the plaintiff but it was said to be a defect that could be cured. Reliance was placed upon a letter from the solicitors for the Official Assignee (see paragraph 2.3 of the memorandum).}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 It was said that the Court needed to stay the proceedings to allow the Official Assignee "}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid13894467 to come on board}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1779854 ". }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Counsel said that the Official Assignee might allow the matter to proceed as he did in OA 01}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1779854 /}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 08.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Furthermore, counsel submitted that the basis of the current proceeding concerned an interest in land a nd therefore the Official Assignee might not have an interest in the chose in action.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2315459\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [19]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 In relation to the second ground, the absence of leave to act as agent, the plaintiff accepted that Mr Moore was not the plaintiff, not a solicitor and did not have leave in the instant case. It was said, however, that he had filed civil and land matters in the Court on behalf of the plaintiff previously. Reliance was placed upon proceeding OA 01}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1779854 /}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 08 where Mr Moo re had acted as agent (for the respondent) and it was said the applicant was estopped from denying Mr Moore's status. \par \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11496631 [20]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 The plaintiff went on to assert that because the Court had previously accepted documents from Mr Moore he was therefore accepted as the agent of the plaintiff and, it seems, therefore had leave in the instant case.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8931904\charrsid14173935 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid8931904 Reply by the first defendant \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8931904\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [21]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 On 20 February 2009 (New Zealand time) the first defendant prepared and subsequently filed a memorandum in response.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3744692\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3744692 [22]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 In relation to the bankruptcy ground Mr Morley noted that the submissions ignored the relevant provisions in the Cook Islands Act 1915 and the Insolvency Act 9367 (NZ). He asserted that section 655(2), Cook Islands Act, did not apply in relation to the instant proceedi ng. Therefore, he submitted, Mrs Tupangaia's property, which included the chose in action, had passed to the Official Assignee and that Mrs Tupangaia had no ability, right or power to}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3744692 issue or bring the proceeding.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3744692\charrsid14173935 He}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 said there was no power retrospectively to validate the issue of the proceedings.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3744692\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14821272 [23]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 In relation to the Judicature Act ground he referred to section 61(2), Law Practitioners Act, which enabled any person, with the approval of the Judge, to act as an agent for any person in the Land Division of the High Court. He submitted there was no such approval but, in any event, the claim did not fall within the Land Division of the Court. I have already concluded (see [3] above) that this is not a claim within the Land Division of this Court.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2440205\charrsid14173935 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid2440205 Discussion \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2440205\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [24]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 In this part of the Judgment I address and decide the two arguments raised by Mr Morley.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3279319\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3279319 [25]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 First, I am satisfied that the claims set out in the proceeding are a chose in action which had passed to the Official Assignee in New Zealand as a result of Mrs Tupangaia's bankruptcy.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Neither she (nor Mr Moore or her son on her behalf) had any interest in that chose in action entitling them to bring the proceeding. In effect, there was no claim she could advance because it had passed to the Official Assignee.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12865391\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [26]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I am not aware of any power retrospectively to obtain the consent of the Official Assignee in New }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10357714\charrsid14173935 Zealand}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 to advance this proceeding and thus to validate it. Mrs Tupangaia has taken no steps to obtain that consent, in any}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12865391 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 e vent, and she has had sufficient opportunity to do so should she have chosen to follow that course. Consequently, there is no evidence before the Court that the Official Assignee has any interest in pursuing the claim (assuming, for the purposes of argume nt, that that is relevant).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12865391\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [27]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 There seems little doubt that only the Official Assignee had the right to bring the proceeding. There may well be arguments available that provisions of the Insolvency Act 1967 (NZ) operate to prohibit or stay the claim. I was not expressly addressed on such arguments. Indeed, there might be difficult issues of law that arise as to the relationship between the New Zealand legislation and Cook Island law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 But I do not need to get into that in order to decide the point raised by Mr Morley.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I am quite satisfied that there was no claim available to Mrs Tupangaia (or those purporting to act on her behalf). The absence of a good claim does not, of itself, render a proceeding a nullity but it certainly does render it subject to a st rikeout application. Consequently, and for the reasons set out above, I strike out the proceeding on the first ground advanced by Mr Morley.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3277740\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [28]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 The second ground relied upon by the first defendant was that it was not issued in terms of the provisions of the Judicature Act by a party, a solicitor, or an agent with leave. Section 61(2), Law Practitioners Act, is clearly intended to work in conjunction with the Judicature Act provisions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12869188\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [29]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 It is common ground that Mr Moore did not have actual leave to issue proceedings in this case. It was said that in some way he had a general leave to act as a result of other proceedings in which he is involved. Referenc}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5515540 e was specifically made to OA 0}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 1/08. I observe that OA 01}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5515540 /}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 08 is a proceeding concerning the forfeiture of a lease (and that lease is not property that has passed to the Official Assignee in New Zealand). The bankruptcy does not apply to it: section 655(2), Cook Islands Act. In that regard I note the contents of the fax dated 27 March 2008 attached to Mr Morley's Memorandum of 4 December 2008.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid924048\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [30]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 The plaintiff also alleged an estoppel. That argument was misconceived.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 It cannot possibly apply in determining the status of this proceeding.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid924048\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [31]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Section 42, Judicature Act, supported by section 61(2), Law Practitioners Act, clearly requires that leave must be granted in any proceeding to be commenced by an agent. The statutory provisions do not specifically refer to issuing the proceedings (as opposed to the question of representation) but}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403104 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 the legal ability to represent a party goes to the heart of the commencement of a proceeding by the agent purportedly on behalf of a plaintiff. An agent may only take that step with the leave of the Court. Th e necessary implication is that, in the absence of leave, an agent is not entitled to issue a proceeding.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid924048\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [32]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 There is no legal basis to argue that Mr Moore had some general leave (assuming that to be made out on the facts) to issue this proceeding in the Civil Division of this Court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 In the present case, Mr Moore made no attempt to obtain leave either prior to filing the proceeding or at the same time as doing so. He has candidly admitted that. In fact, many months went by before this issue was even addressed.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 If I had not raised the issue it seems unlikely that Mr Moore would have arranged for a solicitor to take over the file. Even now, there is no formal application for leave, simply a plea to regularise the proceeding after the event.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid924048\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [33]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I was not specifically addressed on the Code of Civil Procedure although there was a general reference to it in the first defendant's application of 4 December 2008 and the plaintiff referred, in passing, to rule 4, Rules 66 and 67 govern the issue of proceedings. Rule 69 specifically authorises the Court to treat as regular, proceedings otherwise wrongly commenced. But that rule is clearly p}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13401327 rocedural only.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Similar broad powers can be found in rules 4 and 5. But these, too, are procedural rules, and cannot overcome t he absence of leave if that is required by statute. I am satisfied that, in the Cook Islands, a proceeding, in order to be validly commenced under the Code of Civil Procedure, must be commenced either by a party, a solicitor, or an agent with the leave of the Court. If someone else purports to commence a proceeding, the proceeding has not been validly commenced and must be regarded as a nullity. I do not believe I have jurisdiction to cure such a defect. This is not a case such as }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid13401327 Edwards & Hardy Hamilton Limited v Woodhouse}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 3 PRNZ 362. In that case, the Court appears to have assumed that the deficiency was merely an irregularity under the rules. The Court referred to and relied on an Australian decision, }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14701122 Hubbard etc v Anderson & Just}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14701122 (No 2) [1972] VR 5}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 77, d ealing with non-compliance with the rules. It appears to me that the defect here is fundamental and is not a procedural oversight that can be overcome by reliance upon rule 5. That defect arises as a consequence of statute and not by rule. \par \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid924048 [34]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 However, a nd if I am wrong as to that, I address the issue of whether I would exercise my discretion to regularise the proceeding.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I would not do so.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I believe that Mr Moore issued these proceedings knowing he was not entitled to do so.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 It goes too far to say that he was holding himself above the law, b}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6242984 ut I think it fair to say there}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid459194 was an element of tak}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 ing the law into his own han}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11086560 ds. If he}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 had moved, at the same time as filing the proceeding, to seek leave to issue that might have indicated an entirely different attitude on his part. But he did not do so. And he continued to conduct the proceeding as if he was authorised to do so. The Cour t must be careful to ensure that the right to issue proceedings is protected. But at the same time, that right must be guarded so as to ensure it is not abused. The legislature has set out who might issue proceedings and the three categories provided for r e cognise the responsibilities that go with the right to commence proceedings. A party who issues proceedings personally is subject to costs orders. A solicitor is subject to disciplinary proceedings. An agent who has the leave of the Court Is then subject t o the Court's jurisdiction and disciplinary oversight. Commencing legal proceedings is a serious business and it is not a right extended to anybody. Mr Moore did not have the Court's leave and did not bother to seek it. In those circumstances I would have declined any jurisdiction to regularise the proceeding.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535368\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1535368 [35]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 While I. have addressed that discretion, I am quite satisfied that it does not need to be exercised in this case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 For the reasons set out above I believe the proceeding was a nullity at the time it is issued and I so declare it. I therefore strike it out. The filing fee is to be returned to Mr Moore.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9118437\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9118437 [36]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 On the basis of the reasoning set out above I conclude the proceeding is a nullity in relation to the second ground. I strike it out in reliance on both arguments.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1530107\charrsid14173935 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid1530107 Costs \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1530107\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1530107\charrsid2313325 [37]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid2313325 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7557805\charrsid2313325 I}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid2313325 have declared the proceeding to be a nullity. The reality, however, is that the proceeding was filed, the first defendant was served, and legal representation paid for by the defendants. I have now struck out the procee ding, being the procedural means by which my declaration is brought into effect. \par \par [38] The }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7557805\charrsid2313325 plaintiff\rquote s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid2313325 actions, as carried into effect by Mr Moore, have put the first defe}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7557805\charrsid2313325 ndant to trouble and expense}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7557805 . I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 believe it is entitled to costs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7557805\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 [39]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 In the usual course, costs would be payable by the cited party, that is, Mrs Tupangaia. In the present case, however, the failures are those of her agent. In the unusual circumstances of this case, I see no reason why Mr Moore should not be the subject of costs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 For example, if a solicitor issued a proceeding without authority, claiming to do so in someone's name, I imagine the Court would have no difficulty in awarding costs against that solicitor. Conceptually, the present case appears to be no different.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8798919\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8798919 [}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 40]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I have not received any submissions on this topic from Mr Moore.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I direct that Mr Vakalalabure file such submissions within fourteen days from the date of release of this Judgment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 I will then make a final decision on the question of costs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 For the avoidance of doubt, I do not require any further submissions on this topic from the first defendant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5207664\charrsid14173935 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid14173935 Dated 18 March 2009 (New Zealand time) \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5207664 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11086560 Weston }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5207664\charrsid5207664 J}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14173935\charrsid5207664 \par }}