Youth Court

Courts remain an essential service throughout all COVID-19 restrictions, but may operate differently.

For more information for court users, see: Information for all court and tribunal users.

The Youth Court deals with criminal offending by children and young people that is too serious to be dealt with by the police in the community. It is governed by the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989.

This website is hosted by the Ministry of Justice, but the Youth Court is independent of Government.

Youth Court Factsheet [PDF, 40 KB]

  • About Youth Court »

    What to expect at Youth Court, who is in the Court room and what happens after you have had a hearing.

  • Youth justice »

    The principles that underpin the youth justice system, and the history of its development in New Zealand.

  • Media & newsletters »

    Reporting by media is subject to restrictions in the Youth Court. Here you will find media protocol and guidance about what will be appropriate.

  • Decisions »

    The Youth Court publishes summaries of decisions to comply with the law. These decisions have been made anonymous to protect the identities of young people involved.