A leading figure in New Zealand’s legal and media landscape, Linda Clark is a respected barrister whose career spans award‑winning political journalism, public law, and high‑profile legal advocacy. Known for her sharp intellect, deep understanding of public institutions, and ability to navigate complex national issues, she has become one of Aotearoa’s most trusted analytical voices across both law and broadcasting.
Linda first came to prominence through more than two decades in journalism, becoming one of New Zealand’s most influential political interviewers. She served as TVNZ’s Political Editor before hosting RNZ’s Nine to Noon programme, earning multiple accolades including Qantas Awards for Best News Reporting and Best Current Affairs Story. Her incisive interviewing style and authoritative political analysis shaped national conversations and established her as a leading commentator on government, democracy, and public life.
In 2006, Linda made a decisive shift from journalism to the law — a transition described by NZ On Screen as a “hard pivot.” She completed her legal studies and graduated in 2011, later joining Kensington Swan (now Dentons Kensington Swan) in 2014. She progressed quickly, becoming a partner in 2019 and spending six years advising on public, administrative, and media law.
Her work in practice involved some of the country’s most significant legal matters. She has represented high‑profile New Zealanders including Clarke Gayford in a defamation dispute with NZME, Rachel MacGregor in litigation relating to the Colin Craig case, and former Speaker Trevor Mallard. Her expertise also saw her appointed to the panel reviewing RNZ’s editorial systems following global attention on pro‑Russian edits to its Ukraine coverage — a role that underscored her standing at the intersection of law, media ethics, and public trust.
Linda’s legal reputation is recognised internationally: she has been ranked by The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners for her work in public law, government, and regulatory matters.
After six impactful years at Dentons Kensington Swan, Linda is now joining Thorndon Chambers, entering the independent bar where she will continue to work on complex public, regulatory, and media cases.
With a career that bridges two of New Zealand’s most visible and scrutinised sectors — journalism and the law — Linda Clark brings a rare combination of experience, authority, and insight into how decisions are made, how institutions operate, and how stories shape democratic life.
Talking Points
Linda offered a fresh approach as was very popular amongs the delegates. They were impressed and enjoyed Linda's introductions. ... keep reading State Services Commission
Linda was exactly what we needed and the audience reaction was very positive.
Linda interacted very well with the audience and was very interesting.
Linda provided a humourous insight into politics, MP's and the political system.
Linda delivered a confident, well researched presentation.
We organised this appearance in a very short space of time, so I only gave very brief direction but Linda provided exactly the kind of information/presentation we needed.
Linda was the perfect choice for this debate. Her political awareness, quick wit and ability to adroitly handle the large number of candidates as well the incoming tweets etc made for a very lively and engaging debate
"Linda chaired the political session well and was well received."
