New Zealand has an independent judiciary. The Chief Justice is appointed by the Governor-General on the advice of the Prime Minister. Judges are appointed by the Governor-General - generally, on the recommendation of the Attorney-General.
Court of Appeal and High Court judges can only be removed from office by the Queen or the Governor-General, acting on a recommendation from the House of Representatives. District Court judges can be removed from office by the Governor-General.
Lawyers who have held a practising certificate for at least seven years are eligible for appointment as judges.
