Hearing Manager | Canterbury

Job Description

Hearing Manager, Environment Court - Christchurch, Permanent Full time

Te Haeata/The Opportunity

The Ministry of Justice provides a range of justice services around New Zealand.  We have more than 3000 people working across 120 locations around the country, all working towards our vision of a safe and just New Zealand.

We are currently seeking a suitably qualified person to join our team to provide hearing support to our Christchurch-based Environment Judges.  If you have a passion for Environmental Law, initiative and a keen eye for detail, this is an opportunity to contribute to the work of the Environment Court in New Zealand.

You will work closely with the Environment Judges and Commissioners, together with other registry staff and management. 

You will be part of a tight-knit team and your day-to-day work in support of the Judges will be varied, busy and challenging.  It will include, proactive case management of the Court's files, including arranging hearings, acting as the Court's Registrar and communicating with lawyers, parties and witnesses.  Assistance in the drafting of minutes and proof reading may also be required.  The position involves travelling with the court around New Zealand. 

Ō pūkenga/Skills and Experience

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor of Laws degree or equivalent experience along with:

• Strong analytical, planning and organisational skills
• Knowledge of Case Management Practices (desirable)
• Sound knowledge of the Resource Management Act
• Meticulous spelling, grammar and attention to detail
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to travel up to 20 weeks per year
• A desire to contribute and make a difference in a happy and skilled team.
• Demonstrable knowledge of Te Reo is preferred.

This is a permanent, full time position based in the Christchurch registry.

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.

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. These include:

• 4 weeks holiday leave (Perm)
• flexible work hours where possible
• an online professional development portal
• access to a variety of inclusive and proactive networks

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 appointing salary for this role will be between $67,066 and $85,567 based on skills and experience.

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.

Applications close on 6 April 2026; however, we will be reviewing CVs as they come in and inviting successful candidates to interview before the close date.

If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz

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