Library access

Where are the New Zealand Law Society Libraries?

The NZ Law Society Research Libraries are located in the key city centres of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch 

Online access to legal subscription databases are available at various High and District Courts throughout the country. See the contacts page for more details.

Is after-hours access available?

After-hours access is available at the research libraries.

How do I get access to library resources at the District Court?

See the Contact the Library pages for information about accessing lawyers' room library resources at selected District Courts.

I do not have a current practising certificate – can I still get access to the Library?

Becoming an Associate member of the New Zealand Law Society with additional access to library services allows a person access to the libraries.
The Rules for Associate Membership state who may be eligible to become an Associate Member. Go to the Associate Membership page.

Resources and services

What resources are available?

The Law Society Library holds a comprehensive collection of hard copy New Zealand and Commonwealth legal resources.

The Library subscribes to an extensive online collection of LexisNexis, Thomson Reuters and CCH databases offering case law and commentary on all areas of New Zealand law. The online collection also includes a selection of Australian, United Kingdom and Canadian resources.
Databases are available to practitioners via Law Society computers in the research libraries and solicitors’ rooms in these courthouses.

Library holdings are listed in the Library catalogue.

What services are available?

The Library provides research services, document delivery services, inter-library loans, training, and the hiring of gowns for court. Contact the library to find out more

How do I request research or document delivery?

For both research and document delivery you can either phone or email your nearest Research Library, or use the online form.

Can I take books out?

We are a reference library and books cannot be borrowed or removed from the Library.  Our collection is available to lawyers at all times.
A selection of legal eBooks from LexisNexis are available for electronic loan for 14 days via the Lexis Red service.

Wigs and gowns

How do I hire a gown for court?

You can hire a gown for court from the Auckland, Wellington and Canterbury Libraries.

How do I get a wig and gown for ceremonial occasions?

Wigs, gowns and bibs, for all ceremonial occasions, can be hired from The Graduation Place. Advance booking is essential. Email info@graduationplace.co.nz

Wellington Library has a small number of gowns, wigs and bibs that can be hired by lawyers.
Email wellington@nzlslibrary.org.nz or call 04 472 7837

Can I borrow a gown for a fancy dress party?

No. Sorry gowns are only available to practitioners for court.