Neil MacLean began his law career in Christchurch after graduating from the University of Canterbury in 1967 and was appointed a District Court Judge in 1993.

He came to national prominence in 2007 when he became New Zealand’s Chief Coroner.
Judge MacLean undertook several reforms of the coronial system at the time, introducing a national system that ensured coroners were available on a 24/7 basis, improving the turnaround time for releasing the bodies of deceased people to their families.

He is remembered for working with government and building relationships with other agencies involved in the coronial process, such as police, the ESR and health professionals. During his tenure as Chief Coroner, Judge MacLean was an honorary member of the NZSFO and made many friends within the Society. He will be remembered as a strong advocate for improved reporting and more open discussions on suicide.
Judge MacLean was a strong supporter of the Society, regularly attending meetings and always making himself available for advice and his opinion. He was extremely generous with his time and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Judge MacLean was made a Companion of the Queen's Service Order in the 2015 Queen's Birthday Honours for his services to the judiciary.

He is survived by Sue, his wife of 53 years, their three children and their families.