Principal Youth Court Judge Andrew Becroft has been appointed Children's Commissioner, effective from July 2016.

Judge Becroft has been appointed for a two-year term and will resign from his position as Principal Youth Court Judge. He will be on secondment from his duties as a District Court Judge.

Social Development Minister Anne Tolley says the Children's Commissioner is an independent advocate for the interests, rights and wellbeing of children in New Zealand.

"Judge Becroft comes into the role at a time of major change and I have no doubt he is the right person at the right time, and that he will do a fantastic job," she says.

"Judge Becroft's experience of dealing with troubled and at-risk young people will be vital in the development of a youth justice service aimed at preventing offending and reoffending as part of the major overhaul. His opinions will also be important as we investigate raising the youth justice age to include 17 year olds."

Mrs Tolley says Judge Becroft will also provide advice on how the role of the Children's Commissioner may evolve as the new oeprating model for care and protection is implemented.

Judge Becroft was appointed a District Court Judge in 1996 and appointed to the role of Principal Youth Court Judge in 2001.