'Formidable' QC involved in Winebox inquiry dies

Richard Craddock. Photo / Supplied

Richard Craddock, a key figure in the Winebox commission of inquiry and one of New Zealand's longest-serving Queen's Counsel, died on Saturday. He was 76.

Craddock died at home in Wanaka from a brain tumour.

He featured in several high-profile commercial cases, some of which took him to the Privy Council in London.

He represented EuroNational atthe Winebox inquiry, which wentfrom 1994 to 1997, into claims of corruption and incompetence inthe Serious Fraud Office and Inland Revenue Department.

The commission, which was headed by Sir Ronald Davison, heard evidence from several big New Zealand companies at the time - including the Bank of New Zealand and Brierley Investments. The inquiry concluded that there were no grounds to support the allegations.

In the courtroom, Craddock often crossed swords with Jim Farmer, QC, who told the Herald he was a formidable opponent who could have easily become a judge had he had the inclination.

"I think by nature he was a barrister who enjoyed the adversarial aspects of barristers' practice," said Farmer, who represented Brierley Investments at the Winebox inquiry.

Craddock had a wide range of interests including sailing, rally driving and diving. He climbed Mt Aorangi twice, the second time when he was in his 60s. He climbed several other South Island peaks such as Mt Sefton and Mt Tasman. He was also a Jaguar enthusiast and an amateur pilot.

"He was regarded as being pugnacious, very fierce, and an almost feared adversary," Farmer said.

"In my experience, though, he was always eager to explore settlement possibilities in the interests of both his clients and the other side's clients.

"He was also very straightforward. He always put his cards right out on the table and you knew exactly where he was coming from."

Sir Ian Barker, QC, a friend and former High Court judge, said Craddock graduated from the University of Otago's School of Law, joined a Dunedin law firm, and moved to Auckland where he became a partner with Holmden Horrocks, before joining the bar.

"He had a formidable intellect and was very quick and innovative with solutions," Sir Ian said.

Craddock's attention to detail in the courtroom extended to life outside the legal world.

"He brought the same meticulousness to his flying that he brought to his preparation of a case," said one former colleague and friend.

Craddock is survived by his wife, Lizzie, daughters Amanda and Joanna and son David.