The purpose of this website is to explain the role and work of District Court Judges who are appointed by the Governor-General, acting on the advice of the Attorney-General.
The New Zealand system of government is based on the separation of powers(external link). Judges make decisions according to the laws passed by the Legislature, while the funding and administration of the courts is provided by the Executive.
The District Court is the largest court in Australasia. Each year, up to 182 permanent Judges in 58 courthouses deal with approximately 200,000 criminal, family, youth and civil matters.
Watch a video about New Zealand's court system here(external link)
Find out more about the categories of offences and types of trials for proceedings under the Criminal Procedure Act here(external link)
Find out more about Family Court legislation here(external link)
Find out more about Youth Court legislation here(external link)
Find out more about what claims you can take to civil court here(external link)
The 2025 District Court of New Zealand Te Kōti ā Rohe o Aotearoa is the largest court in…
Judge Jonathan Moses (pictured) has been appointed as Chief Community Magistrate. Read the announcement from the Associate Justice Minister here Read…
The Attorney-General has announced the appointment of Prudence McGuire and Christopher Macklin as District Court Judges Read the announcement
The public has a right to know what happens in our courts. In most circumstances, court hearings are…
This website explains many of the things you might want to know if you are coming to the Youth Court, or just wondering how the Youth Court works.
Visit website
Ministry of Justice website with information on family issues including about going to court, forms and other times when you may need help.
Visit website
For information about courts and tribunals, including going to court, finding a court & collection of fines and reparation.
Visit website
On this site you will find information about our Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and High Court including recent decisions, daily lists and news.
Visit website