General: Frequently Asked Questions

How can I enforce a debt?

Can I file a civil enforcement application?

Can I file my application online?

Can I pay application fees online?

I am unable to attend my civil enforcement hearing, what can I do?

Can I file more than one civil enforcement application at the same time for the same debt?

I have more than one address for the judgment debtor, which one do I choose?

What is the difference between financial assessment hearings and assessment of financial means applications?

How can I find out what is happening with my application?

Why is the amount I requested to be deducted different to the amount on the attachment order?

How can I change the details of my attachment order?

What does it mean if a debtor is insolvent?

How do I get an interpreter or accessibility assistance for my hearing?

Can I provide extra information on my civil enforcement application?

How can I update my personal details?

How can I enforce a debt?

There are several different civil enforcement options that may be available to you.

For more information on each of these options please have a look at the civil application forms.

Can I file a civil enforcement application?

If you are a party listed on a judgment order, or Lawyer representing a party on an order then you can apply for civil enforcement.

Can I file my application online?

Yes. The Courts of New Zealand file and pay(external link) system provides you with an online alternative to posting applications.

Alternatively, you can scan your application and email it through to the Central Registry at civilenforcement@justice.govt.nz.

If filing online you need to ensure that your application has a handwritten, original signature and not an electronic one.

File and Pay(external link)

Can I pay application fees online?

Yes, file and pay(external link) provides you with an online alternative to paying the fees in person at a courthouse.

I am unable to attend my civil enforcement hearing, what can I do?

You can send your request to have your hearing rescheduled to civilenforcement@justice.govt.nz to be considered by a deputy registrar.

Can I file more than one civil enforcement application at the same time for the same debt?

Yes. You can file multiple applications at once as long as the applications contain the information that is required, and the filing fees are paid for.

I have more than one address for the judgment debtor, which one do I choose?

You should apply using the most current address you have.

What is the difference between financial assessment hearings and assessment of financial means applications?

An assessment of financial means is when a deputy registrar phones the judgment debtor to assess their ability to pay. This application is usually filed when the judgment creditor has a contact number for the judgment debtor but not their address.

A financial assessment hearing is when a judgment debtor is summoned to attend a hearing at a district court. At this hearing the debtor's ability to pay will be assessed by a deputy registrar and the judgment creditor or their agent may attend.

How can I find out what is happening with my application?

You can email us at civilenforcement@justice.govt.nz or call 0800 233 222 to check the progress on your application.

Why is the amount I requested to be deducted different to the amount on the attachment order?

The payment being deducted on the attachment order may differ from your application for the following reasons:

  • The deputy registrar processing your application may have made a decision to change the deduction amount based on the information provided.

    If you are unhappy or disagree with this change, you can apply for a review of Deputy Registrar Decision [PDF, 263 KB]

OR

  • The Ministry of Social Development or the employer may have changed the payment amount to accurately reflect the protected earnings rate of the debtor.

How can I change the details of my attachment order?

You can apply to change your attachment order by filing an application to vary suspend or cancel an attachment order.

If you are wanting to reduce or increase the deduction rate of an attachment order, it is recommended that you provide evidence such as bank statements, a budget sheet, or similar information to support your application.

Vary, Suspend or Cancel and Attachment Order

What does it mean if a debtor is insolvent?

Insolvency is a state of financial distress in which a person or business is unable to pay their debts.

Individual insolvency options:

  • Debt Repayment Order
  • No Asset Procedure
  • Bankruptcy

Company insolvency options:

  • Receivership
  • Voluntary administration
  • Liquidation

For more information about insolvency in New Zealand, please refer to this page: Home | Insolvency and Trustee Service(external link)

How do I get an interpreter or accessibility assistance for my hearing?

The Ministry of Justice has interpreters, language and disability access for those who need assistance.

Can I provide extra information on my civil enforcement application?

Yes, you can provide extra information which relates to the application you are applying for. This may include evidence of income and property.

How can I update my personal details?

You can email us at  civilenforcement@justice.govt.nz to update your details or call 0800 233 222.