Judges Clerk 2026 | Wellington Chief Judge's Chambers | Wellington City
Te Haeata/The opportunity
The Ministry of Justice invites applications for the position of Judge's Clerk to the Chief District Court Judge ("Chief Judge"). The position offers new graduates the opportunity to work closely with the Chief Judge for up to three years, gaining insight into the judicial process and broad exposure to the administration of the District Court of New Zealand, te Kōti-ā-Rohe o Aotearoa.
The Judge's Clerk will:
undertake legal research and draft legal opinions for the Chief Judge
assist with policy development, and the drafting of protocols and practice notes for the District Court
assist with projects relating to the administration of the District Court, including the provision of legal advice on strategic and operational matters relevant to the District Court judiciary
keep up to date with changes in the law relevant to the District Court. This may include writing and circulating explanatory memoranda or case notes either at the request of the Chief Judge or on your own initiative
undertake administrative duties including taking minutes for judicial committee meetings
respond to legal and procedural queries
provide legal research for conference papers and speeches
on occasion, assist the Chief Judge with legal research to support judgment writing.
The Judge's Clerk will report directly to the Chief Judge. This is a permanent, full-time position based in Wellington.
Ō pūkenga/Skills and Experience
The successful applicant will have:
a law degree with excellent academic achievement, particularly in criminal law. Electives such as criminal procedure, evidence, civil procedure, te Tiriti o Waitangi and tikanga Māori or Māori customary law are of benefit
an excellent understanding of tikanga and te reo Māori is desirable
excellent and accurate written and communication skills
problem-solving skills
qualities such as self-motivation, efficiency and initiative, and the ability to work independently and without supervision
excellent organisational and time management skills.
Mō mātou/About us
At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to strengthening people's trust in the law of Aotearoa, New Zealand.
The District Court is the largest court in Australasia. Most New Zealanders who go to court will go through the entire justice process in the District Court. Each year, more than 200 Judges, acting Judges, Community Magistrates and Judicial Justices' of the Peace in 58 courthouses deal with approximately 200,000 criminal, family, youth and civil matters. For more information please visit us on Home - The District Court of New Zealand (districtcourts.govt.nz)
Joining Te Tāhū o te Ture means you will become part of an organisation that welcomes and supports people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities and religions.
Ngā painga o tēnei wāhi mahi/What's great about working here
We offer you a range of benefits to support your wellbeing and help make the Ministry a great place to be. See our full range of benefits: here.
With a wide range of jobs, you also get the chance to gain a variety of skills and experience while developing your career.
Utu ā-tau/Salary
The starting salary is $68,845 with an opportunity to progress in six-monthly increments to $83,135 pa.
Tono mai/Apply
To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.
If you wish to apply for this position please include your University transcript in your application pack and a copy of a recent legal opinion, thesis, essay or memorandum you have completed that should not exceed 2000 words.
The successful applicant will be expected to start early in 2026. All applications will be considered, including from those who are currently studying, but expect to complete studies at the end of 2025.
Applications close on Sunday, 2 November; however, we will be reviewing CVs as they come in and may invite successful candidates to interview before the close date.
If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz
