Paralympics: City lawyer to sit on international body

Rotorua's Mark Copeland has been selected as a member of the International Paralympic Committee's Legal and Ethics Committee. Photo/Supplied

A Rotorua law firm director has been appointed on to the International Paralympic Committee's Legal and Ethics Committee.

Mark Copeland is the only Kiwi on the committee.

The Paralympics New Zealand chairman for five years, he has a strong history supporting para-sport.

"I am humbled to be appointed to the IPC Legal and Ethics Committee," he said.

"It is a first for New Zealand. I look forward to performing this important leadership role to my best ability, working hard to maintain the ethical operation of the IPC's activities and to ensure fair processes and opportunities for para-athletes worldwide."

Copeland is also a Sir Edmund Hillary Outdoor Pursuits Centre and Sport Bay of Plenty trustee.

He was last year appointed as the Oceania Paralympic Committee secretary general.

He is the owner and director of commercial law firm MJC Legal Ltd, based in Rotorua.

The committee has one position remaining, to be filled by a Paralympic athlete with relevant legal experience.