Chief High Court Judge advises on High Court arrangements

The Chief High Court Judge, the Hon Justice H D Winkelmann, has announced temporary arrangements for the operation of the High Court in Christchurch. The court building will remain closed for the foreseeable future. There is not as yet an alternative venue for hearing fixtures in Christchurch but planning is under way to hear fixtures elsewhere where convenient to counsel and the parties.

However, the registry will be operating from today (Monday, 28 February). Because there is currently no building available in Christchurch, registry functions in the short term will be undertaken out of the Wellington High Court. Filings may be made electronically at canterburyhcapplications@justice.govt.nz. The contact person for inquiries is Jane Penney at 04 931 5831. Please indicate that your query involves a Christchurch matter.

Longer term, arrangements are urgently being made to re-open a registry office in Christchurch. Arrangements are being made on a case-by-case basis as to where matters will be heard. At this stage matters are likely to be heard in alternative court centres. The registry is to contact all counsel involved in forthcoming fixtures to ascertain their ability to undertake scheduled hearings.

In the meantime counsel are asked to direct all queries to canterburyhcapplications@justice.govt.nz or to Jane Penney at 04 931 5831. (Source: Statement made by Chief High Court Judge).

© New Zealand Law Society 2008