Daniel Watkins
Director
MSc(Hons), LLB, LLM
Daniel is from the Hokianga. Attended Massey University as a Science Undergraduate then transferred to Auckland University and majored in Biochemistry. Completed a Master of Science in Biochemistry with Honours. Some years later he completed his Bachelor of Laws at Auckland then a Master of Laws primarily in Commercial Law and Corporate Governance. He primarily specialises in Waitangi Tribunal work and some Criminal Law jurisdictions and Civil work and when not working he enjoys fishing.
Tiffany Watkins
Finance Manager
Tiffany is from the Hokianga and manages the finances for the firm.
She enjoys being involved in the work the firm does within the Waitangi Tribunal area and in her spare time enjoys being creative.
Lorraine Cochrane Ngati Manu, Te Uri Taniwha, Ngati Kuri & Ngapuhi
Practice Manager
Lorraine has been involved in almost all aspects of the law for a number of years and is a basket of knowledge when issues of Court procedure arise. Lorraine was previously employed at the Kaikohe District Court as a Deputy Registrar for 14 years before moving to Kotuku Chambers in 2009 and later joining the firm in 2014.
Outside of work Lorraine volunteers her time with local organisations she also enjoyed spending time with whanau, having her mokopuna around especially during school holidays and cooking up a storm.
Manawa Johnson
Senior Solicitor, LLB/BA Conjoint, LLM – International Law
Manawa grew up in Hokianga region of the Far North and currently resides in Kerikeri. Manawa joined the firm in 2025, her expertise in both Māori legal matters and general practice make her a good choice for clients seeking guidance in Waitangi Tribunal claims, civil litigation, criminal, family law, or Treaty related matters. Her legal experience spans several prominent New Zealand institutions and law firms.
April Peri
Registered Legal Executive
I am a Registered Legal Executive, proudly raised in Oromāhoe, with whakapapa connections to Oromāhoe through my mother and Pawarenga through my father. My partner and I reside in the beautiful Hokianga with our daughter.
I bring a broad range of legal experience, including estates, estate planning including wills, insurance claims, enduring powers of attorney, PPPR applications, some family law and general legal issues.
Before entering the legal profession, I spent 16 years as a meter reader and over 20 years working in hospitality across Waipapa and Kerikeri. These roles strengthened my connection to our communities and shaped my people-focused approach.
I am passionate about supporting and advocating for our kaumātua and kuia.
