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The judiciary of New Zealand is responsible for the system of courts that interprets and applies the laws of New Zealand. It has four primary functions: to provide a mechanism for dispute resolution; to deliver authoritative rulings on the meaning and application of legislation; to develop case law; and to uphold the rule of law, personal liberty and human rights.[1] The judiciary is supported in its work by an executive department, the Ministry of Justice.[2]
The court system has four levels: the six-member Supreme Court is the highest court; the ten-member Court of Appeal hears appeals from the High Court on points of law; the High Court deals with serious criminal offences and civil matters, and hears appeals from the lower courts; and the District Court, which meets in fifty-eight locations. There is also a separate Māori Land Court and Māori Appellate Court which have jurisdiction over Māori land cases[3] under the Te Ture Whenua Maori Act 1993.[4]
- ^ Joseph, Philip A.; Joseph, Thomas (11 October 2016). "Judicial system – What is the judicial system?". Te Ara: The Encyclopedia of New Zealand. Retrieved 29 April 2020.
- ^ "The Statement of Principles". Courts of New Zealand. Retrieved 29 October 2021.
- ^ "About the Māori Land Court". Ministry of Justice. Retrieved 21 December 2013.
- ^ "Te Ture Whenua Maori Act 1993 (Maori Land Act 1993)". New Zealand Legislation. Parliamentary Counsel Office. 5 December 2013. Retrieved 21 December 2013.