The role of judges is to serve the public. All judges do this by applying the law — which is made by the democratic legislature — in a way which gives everyone a fair hearing. Many judges also find other ways to serve their communities.
Judges often work alongside community group to enhance their understanding of New Zealand’s justice system. For example, many judges spend time talking to schools or other community groups about the work they do. Many judges are active in their local communities through charitable organisations, sports clubs and educational institutions. In order to preserve their independence, however, judges do not generally comment on judicial decisions or political matters.
The District Court Judiciary acknowledges the values of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Judges participate in noho marae and to learn te reo Māori. All court announcements are made in te reo Māori and in some courts, particularly the Rangatahi and Matariki Courts, principles of tikanga Māori may be applied.
An example of District Court community involvement is the Northland “Judges in Schools” programme: Judge Duncan Harvey |
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