Inside CCTILF: Fast Five with Dr Petra Butler
On 12 and 13 March, the University of Canterbury and AMINZ are presenting the inaugural two-day Christchurch Conference on International and Transnational Legal Frameworks (CCTILF). We speak with Dr Petra Butler, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Canterbury and AMINZ Fellow, about the conference’s origins and purpose, key topics, and the exciting speaker line-up.
Kia ora Petra, it’s great to speak with you. Tell us first, how did the Conference come about and why now, in 2026?
Kia ora! This conference was inspired by a growing recognition that academics, practitioners, policymakers and businesses in New Zealand and across Oceania have limited awareness of the three organisations shaping the legal frameworks for global trade, commerce, dispute resolution and cross-border cooperation: UNCITRAL, UNIDROIT and the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH).
The COVID‑19 pandemic exposed how vulnerable global and regional supply chains are, especially for island nations dependent on stable flows of goods and services. The economic disruptions highlighted the importance of resilient legal frameworks governing trade, logistics, finance, and cross‑border contracting.
Today, ongoing uncertainty surrounding tariffs and geopolitical tensions have underscored the need for robust, predictable contracts capable of addressing a wide range of contingencies.
The combination of regional need, global shifts, and growing relevance of harmonised legal frameworks makes 2026 the ideal moment to convene this conference.
Can you tell us more about these legal frameworks and their benefits?
They range from model laws and principles to conventions that facilitate international contracting, trade, finance, agriculture, family law cooperation, and more. They’re designed to support stability, predictability and cross-border engagement, enhancing legal certainty, promoting economic development and strengthening cross-border cooperation.
The instruments developed by UNCITRAL and UNIDROIT, including in agricultural finance and sustainable development, are increasingly relevant to Pacific economies, where small and medium-sized jurisdictions face unique challenges and resource constraints.
HCCH conventions, such as the Child Abduction Convention, also continue to be vital for safeguarding individuals and families in an increasingly interconnected world.
How did you decide on the conference’s key topics?
The key topics we’ve selected address issues that are both important and highly relevant for New Zealand and Oceania. Ensuring that countries across Oceania understand and can effectively engage with international commercial frameworks is essential for economic resilience and sustainable development.
We’ve also included cross‑border family law issues as they form a critical part of the legal landscape in an increasingly interconnected world, with the need to support families and communities navigating international mobility.
Who can we expect to hear from?
We have some very exciting speakers: renowned international and domestic experts, including the Secretary General and Deputy Secretary of UNIDROIT, Justice David Goddard, Daniel Kalderimis KC and Robert Kirkness of Thorndon Chambers, Dr Anna Kirk and Lauren Lindsay of Bankside Chambers, Dr Felicity Gerry KC of Crockett Chambers Melbourne, Professor Nadja Alexander from the Singapore Management University, Professor Megumi Hara from the University of Chuo,
Justice Brian Preston, Chief Judge of the Land and Environment Court of NSW, Professor Chester Brown, University of Sydney, and Hon James Allsop AC of Sydney Arbitration Chambers.
I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to bring together these exceptionally knowledgeable minds from around the globe. Having them in one room, exchanging ideas and experiences, creates an unparalleled environment for learning, collaboration, and inspiration!
Who should attend CCITLF?
Lawyers interested in family law, agri-law, cross-border trade, modern slavery and dispute resolution should attend, as well as policymakers, arbitrators, mediators, dispute resolution specialists and business owners. CCITLF is an opportunity to build knowledge, capacity, and collaboration across Oceania at a time when it is most needed. I look forward to connecting with you all there!
The Christchurch Conference on International and Transnational Legal Frameworks is taking place at Rydges Latimer, Thursday 12 and Friday 13 March. AMINZ member-only discounts and early-bird and student pricing are available, with the option to attend online. See the full programme and register today.
