Upper Hutt ratepayers are funding barrister Linda Clark to represent mayor Peri Zee in Harmful Digital Communications Act proceedings brought by Paul and Kate Fabian.

Clark is advising Zee after the Fabians, long‑time council critics, accused her of harmful online conduct. Early interactions between the parties were cordial, but by June Zee accused them of spreading disinformation about her role on the Tiaki Wai Metro Waters Partners committee. The Fabians denied this and filed an HDCA application, which a district court judge accepted in July.

Zee also complained to police about the couple’s communications. A community constable visited their home, but police found the threshold for harassment was not met and closed the file.

A council spokesperson confirmed ratepayers are covering Zee’s legal costs, saying the matter relates to her official capacity. The council has not disclosed Clark’s fees but said it would seek to recover costs if the application is dismissed. A procurement process was not required.

Clark has previously handled several local government disputes, including reviewing Upper Hutt City Council’s response to noise complaints about the Farrah’s bread factory, investigating Wellington City councillors over a leaked land‑purchase proposal, and involvement in disputes at Gore District Council. She has also represented clients in other high‑profile cases.

Read the full article at https://www.thepost.co.nz/politics/361081266/high-profile-lawyer-linda-clark-hired-upper-hutt-mayors-legal-fight-ratepayers-pick-tab

Source: Andrea Vance / The Post

A “thank you” to the editor at The Post for giving The Upper Hutt Connection permission to publish summaries of their articles.

21/09/26