We are aware of a high number of scam texts and emails about fines being sent (from 18 August 2026). We do not send direct payment links via text message or email. If you receive a message about a fine and are unsure whether it is genuine, please contact our call centre on 0800 4 FINES (0800 434 637) before making any payment. Read more about identifying scams.
The 1000+ page Judicature Modernisation legislation passed its third reading on 12 October 2016, and now NZ's 108-year-old courts legislation is in plain language and a more accessible format. It also includes a number of provisions to help courts function better.
Key features include:
District Courts can hear disputes with a value of up to $350,000 (previously $200,000)
It allows courts and tribunals to adopt modern practices like digital documents and electronic case files
Combining our 58 district courts into one District Court of New Zealand – this will be Australasia’s largest court, hearing more than 200,000 matters every year
Modern language
Accessible structure that is easier to read, search and tag online.
The Judicature Modernisation Bill is likely to be one of the first bills Dame Patsy Reddy will sign into law as the new Governor-General.
