"John has an extremely broad grasp of diverse topics in the law. The essence of his teaching skill is in reducing complex ideas and inconsistent case law to a coherent and logically attractive whole. He has a remarkable ability to explain difficult concepts with clarity and intellectual rigour.
"There can be no doubt that John is consistently regarded by law students as an outstanding teacher.
"John is not just a teacher. He is a genuine educator. He is universally regarded with the highest affection and respect. For more than 30 years he has made a contribution to the education of law students at the University of Canterbury."
(Extracts from Professor Stephen Todd's citation at the award of the Teaching Medal to Professor John Burrows at the graduation ceremony on 17 April 2002).
