Royden Somerville QC has been appointed Chancellor of the University of Otago and will take up his role in January.

Dr Somerville was admitted as a barrister and solicitor in February 1972 after graduating from Otago. He practises in public and environmental law. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in May 1998.

Dr Somerville joined the university council in 2010 and is currently pro-chancellor. He will replace John Ward, who is retiring.