Important changes: The Ministry of Justice has updated the Standard Terms and Conditions for Interpreter Services in Courts and Tribunals (Standard Terms).
Read a copy of the Standard Terms
Most courts and tribunals in Aotearoa New Zealand conduct their hearings in the English language. For many participants, English is not their first language. They may struggle to understand and speak English, which could disadvantage them in the hearing process.
Interpreters are also available for te reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language, see Going to Court for more information.
Interpreters help ensure all participants get full and fair access to justice throughout the hearing process.
An interpreter helps people participate in a court or tribunal hearing if they find it hard to speak or understand the English language.
Our Ministry's Standard Terms and Conditions for Interpreter Services in Courts and Tribunals.
These Guidelines set out the conduct we expect of all Ministry-appointed interpreters in a hearing. They also explain court protocol.
Read more about how to make bookings and travel arrangements when providing interpreter services for our Ministry.
If you’re an interpreter for our Ministry, you'll need to complete and submit an invoice and timesheet after a hearing.
Resources for interpreters to help people involved in family violence court proceedings who have English as a second language.
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