About the Court Mō te Kōti-ā-Rohe o Aotearoa

• The judicial branch of government

  The New Zealand system of government is based on the separation of powers between the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary. This separation provides checks…

• All about judges

  A beginner's guide to District Court judgesWho can become a judge?The criteria for appointment to each court differs according to the needs of the particular…

• Introducing some of our District Court Judges   

  Seven District Court Judges talk about their work.                                   …

• The District Court judiciary

  On these pages you will find information about the District Court judiciary.

• Judges talk about the law

  In 2018, judges of the District Court explored aspects and processes of the law that they interpret and apply.  Please note that the information in this…

• Day-to-day work of a District Court Judge

    A judge sitting in open court is largely how the public see justice being dispensed. However, the working day for a District Court Judge usually…

• Judges review their year in work

  In 2019, a group of District Court Judges explored different aspects of law, their roles, and the experiences they bring to the bench. Please note that…

• Judges at work

  In 2017, individual District Court Judges explained their roles, and the diverse skills and experience they bring to the bench. Please note that the information in…

• How District Court Judges make decisions

  The role of a judge is to make or facilitate decisions in accordance with New Zealand’s laws. In order to perform this role, a judge…

• Useful links

  This page has links to information that may be useful if you are going to court, planning to file proceedings in the District Court, or…