Auckland Justices of the Peace Association

I begin by greeting everyone in the languages of the realm of New Zealand, in English, Māori, Cook Island Māori, Niuean, Tokelauan and New Zealand Sign Language. 

Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, Taloha Ni and as it is the afternoon/evening (Sign).

May I specifically greet you: Les Smith and David Grove, President and Vice-President respectively of the Auckland Justices’ of the Peace Association; Justices of the Peace; Distinguished Guests otherwise; Ladies and Gentlemen. 

As Patron of the Royal Federation of New Zealand Justices’ of the Peace, it is with pleasure that my wife Susan welcome the Auckland Justices of the Peace Association to Government House Auckland this evening.

Although New Zealanders, during the month of February celebrate Waitangi, it is important to recall that the role of Justices’ of the Peace in New Zealand began as early as 1814 where Governor Macquarie of New South Wales appointed missionary Thomas Kendall as the first Justice “in the Bay of Islands in New Zealand and throughout the islands of New Zealand and those immediately contiguous thereto”.

Following this appointment, through The Royal Charter of 1840 which constituted New Zealand as a separate colony, the first regular appointments of Justices were made. The role at this time was considered to be representative of the settlers.

In modern times, the role of a Justice of the Peace is an honourable one that involves continuingly important duties and responsibilities. It is then appropriate to recognise that the service provided to the public by Justices is invaluable and contributes in a significant way to communities across the country.

Your work makes a difference to our communities in so many and varied ways. Your ability to support New Zealanders both in times of need of duty and in celebration is a wonderful and reassuring feature of our society.

Since its establishment in 1922, the Auckland Justices’ of the Peace Association and its members have provided almost 90 years of service to Auckland and its communities. This is a significant achievement and one that I congratulate the Association on.

On a more personal note, my links with Justices began in my earliest days in law where I was acquainted with the work of Justices of the Peace in both ministerial and judicial roles often through appearing before a great many of them.

From my early days as a lawyer, to judge, to ombudsmen and now Governor-General, I have maintained respect for the work that you carry out. What you do is an important cornerstone of New Zealand’s legal system and each of you makes a significant contribution to its operation.

I am reminded of the solemn words that form part of the judicial oath which you will be familiar with, having affirmed upon your appointment. These words are:

"I will do right to all manner of people after the laws and usages of New Zealand, without fear or favour, affection or ill will."

I am confident that all of those here this evening, and all Justices throughout the country, have served New Zealand’s public in this most honourable way.

With that sense of appreciation and respect, I will now close in New Zealand's first language Māori, by offering everyone greetings and wishing you all good health and fortitude in your endeavours. 

No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tēnā koutou katoa.