When Una Jagose KC was appointed New Zealand's first female Solicitor-General in 2016, she made history. It was one of those appointments that marked not just a personal achievement, but a milestone for the legal profession itself.
For many New Zealanders, particularly those from migrant communities, her appointment demonstrated that the highest offices of public service are open to talent, integrity and hard work.
Her story begins much earlier and much further away.
Una is the daughter of Rustom Jamshed Jagose, a Parsi from Mumbai, and Anne Jagose from Galway in Ireland.
After marrying in London and spending time in India, her parents chose New Zealand as the place to build their future. Like many immigrant families, they arrived with hopes that the next generation would enjoy opportunities unavailable elsewhere.
Those hopes were realised.
Raised in the Waikato, Una excelled academically before studying law at the University of Otago and Victoria University of Wellington. She entered public service in the early 1990s and steadily built a reputation as one of New Zealand's most respected legal minds.
Over the next three decades she advised successive governments, appeared before courts at every level, represented the Crown in some of the country's most
Speaking at a ceremonial Court hearing important constitutional and public law cases, and contributed to the education of future public sector leaders. Her work demanded not only legal excellence but also judgement, independence and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
As Solicitor-General, Una led the Crown Law Office through a period that included complex constitutional questions, the Christchurch mosque attacks, the Covid-19 pandemic and several landmark legal challenges.
Throughout, she earned widespread respect for her calm leadership, intellectual rigour and professionalism.
Yet her journey also reflects something larger than individual achievement.
It speaks to the contribution that generations of Indian New Zealanders have made to the country's public life, often through quiet service rather than public acclaim. It is a reminder that diversity strengthens institutions and that excellence knows no cultural boundaries.
The Indian Weekender Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame honours individuals whose achievements have enriched New Zealand while inspiring the community they represent.
Few embody those ideals more completely than Una Jagose KC. Her career stands as a testament to the values of public service, integrity and excellence, and to the enduring promise that New Zealand offers to those who are prepared to serve it with distinction.