Cart

News and Updates

Find out more about what is happening in the Association, at the bar, in court and in the legal profession.

View Latest News

Why choose a barrister?

A barrister is an ideal option when you need specialist legal advice or representation. They are agile and able to turn around work quickly. Barristers are also economical when compared with the same level of expertise in law firms. 

Learn More

Joining the independent bar

Thinking about becoming a barrister but not sure how to begin? Take a look at our Checklist for Coming to the Bar (see link below). The NZBA Member Benefits Scheme may also help you source some of the items mentioned in this guide. Finally, learn more about our free and discounted CPD.

Learn more

Explore Member Services

Equality & Diversity

The NZBA is committed to developing a referral bar that reflects the diversity of the legal profession and the wider community.

Learn More

Training and CPD

Premiere advocacy and dispute resolution training, delivered by top barristers.

Learn More

Member Benefit Scheme

Commercial benefits for members

Learn More

Events

Find out about NZBA social events, as well as upcoming ceremonies. 

View events

Resources

Mentoring Programme

Learn More

Important Updates

More stories

Memorandum for incoming Attorney-General

The Chief Justice has released the memorandum she provided to Attorney-General Judith Collins on Ms Collins appointment to the role of Attorney-General in November 2023. The Attorney-General has agreed to the release and the deletions made to protect privacy and preserve free and frank communication between the Chief Justice and Attorney-General.

The memorandum notes that cost savings are being required of all Ministries other than those charged with providing front-line services.  The courts, supported as they are by the Ministry of Justice, have not been exempted from the budgetary reductions, even though they provide essential front-line services.

Changes to Section 27 Funding

The Bill to remove funding for reports obtained under section 27 of the Sentencing Act 2002, often referred to as cultural reports, has now received Royal assent and will take effect on Friday 22 March 2024. This means that the Legal Services Commissioner will no longer be able to fund written reports or in-person appearances, relating to section 27 of the Sentencing Act 2002.

It is important to note that section 27 itself has not been amended. Offenders will still be able to call on a person to speak to the Court about the offender’s background as originally intended by the Act.

From The President - 23 February 2024

Tēnā koutou katoa.

I am delighted to bring you this update and the announcement that the Attorney General, the Hon Judith Collins KC, has today confirmed that there will be a 2024 round for the appointment of Kings Counsel.  Please do read the Attorney-General’s announcement below, which is in line with previous announcements in 2022 and earlier. 

Upcoming Events

View All
May
7
CPD Training

Disciplinary Complaints - How to Act and Respond (CPD 1.5 hrs)

In person and online, 33 Shortland Street, New Zealand
May
9
Social

After Five Tauranga Region Drinks - Spring Street Chambers

Spring Street Chambers, Tauranga, New Zealand
May
10
Social

After Five Christchurch Region Drinks - Walker Street Chambers

Walker Street Chambers, Christchurch, New Zealand
May
23
Social

After Five Auckland Region Drinks - Shortland Chambers

Shortland Chambers, Auckland, New Zealand

Sponsors & Service Providers  

View All

Promoting and encouraging a strong and independent bar

  • © 2024 New Zealand Bar Association | Ngā Ahorangi Motuhake o te Ture
  • All prices are in New Zealand Dollars ($NZD)