One of the true characters of the legal profession has taken down his shingle. David Lyon retired from the legal profession at the end of last year, after 54 years practising law.

David began his legal career as a law clerk with Reyburn McArthur and Boyes in January 1957.  After completing his law degree and then being admitted to the bar on 29 March 1962, David entered the partnership at what was to become Reyburn McArthur Boyes and Lyon.  

In June 1978 David wandered down to the bottom of Auckland's Queen Street with some of his staff to join the late Frank and John Haigh QC, and the firm was renamed Haigh Lyon.  

For the next 38 years David arrived at Haigh Lyon every morning at 7am to answer a steady flow of phone calls.  His approachable and kindly manner meant that he quickly amassed one of the largest personal client bases in the city, handling property, estates, trusts and business matters.  He just as capably doled out horse racing tips, car buying advice and gardening guidance.

David’s vast knowledge, warmth and positive outlook set the tone for the firm. He would arrive each morning with flowers for the receptionist, lamb sausages for staff or garden produce for clients. An avid apiarist, he keeps bees on his property in Arney Crescent, Remuera, and derives great joy dispatching comb honey around the inner city.

Describing himself as a “Queen Street farmer”, his other passion is a large farm block in Henderson Valley, in the foothills of the Waitakere Ranges. There staff and clients alike were trained every Sunday in the ways of mustering, shearing and crutching.  

His many loyal clients span three, and sometimes four, generations. He has developed many close friendships through his personal approach to his clients, which will continue for many years to come. David will still retain his ties to the firm and his valued clients via his Trusteeships, Powers of Attorney and executorships.

The Partners and staff of Haigh Lyon would like to thank David for his many years of loyalty and hard work.  He has left a lasting imprint on the fabric of the firm, and the legal profession.

David is looking forward to spending more time with his family, chasing sheep and cattle around the farm, and teaching the grandchildren to fish at his bach in Matapouri.

The firm will be 90 years old next year. David will spend the next few months helping to compile a history of the firm. He would like to hear from any former staff or colleagues in the law who may have a recollection to share, or well wishes to impart.

David would greatly appreciate a phone call and a yarn on 09 520 3651. His email address is davidlyon21ac@gmail.com.

Gerard Molloy is a partner at Haigh Lyon Lawyers in Auckland.