The Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is the highest court in New Zealand. Established in January 2004, it hears appeals on both civil and criminal cases. The Chief Justice of New Zealand sits on the the Court along with four other Supreme Court judges. It is the role of the Supreme Court to determine the law on issues of particular public or legal significance. Prior to 2004, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (which sits in London) provided these services to New Zealand.