Our History

The role of “Justice of the Peace” is an ancient and honourable one and began as an English institution almost 800 years ago. 

The first appointment of a Justice of the Peace for New Zealand was in November 1814 when Governor Macquarie of New South Wales appointed the missionary Thomas Kendall as a Justice.

The Canterbury Justices of the Peace Association, the first association of Justices in New Zealand, was formed in 1918 to support the Justices of the Peace in the Canterbury Region.  The Canterbury Justices of the Peace Association Inc (CJPA) is one of 28 Associations in NZ that are linked to the parent body, the Royal Federation of New Zealand Justices’ Associations Inc (RFNZJA). This nationwide organisation facilitates accreditation training for Justices of the Peace as well as providing membership services. Nearly all Justices of the Peace in Canterbury are affiliated to the Royal Federation of NZ Justices’ Associations. 

As Justices, all members have been appointed by the Government (Attorney General) of the day and have taken the Oath of Office and the Judicial Oath before a District Court Judge.  The education of members to provide them with up-to-date knowledge  of our country’s changing legislation demands of them, makes up a significant portion of the Association’s work. Regular education sessions are held across the Canterbury Region each year.  

Justices who are specifically trained and authorised, can also: –

  • Issue Search Warrants as Issuing Officers.
  • Serve in the District Court as Judicial Justices.
  • Serve as Nominated Persons supporting young people aged 17 years and under in Police Custody, being interviewed by the police when parents, guardians or other nominated persons are not available.
  • Act as independent observers for the purpose of General or Local Body elections.

Today the Canterbury Justices of the Peace Association is a registered not-for-profit, charitable organisation with circa 580 members.  The Canterbury Justices of the Peace Association has a Council of 9 elected and appointed members who meet monthly to govern and manage the affairs of the Association.