Family, whānau, and relationships

The Community Law Manual Online is a free online resource of easy-to-read legal information and comprehensive answers to common legal questions. The manual aims to provide guidance for the next steps one might take when dealing with a legal problem.

Email: see preferred location for contact information

Web link: communitylaw.org.nz/

The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) provides a free, online information hub designed to help people navigate everyday issues, particularly around understanding their rights and responsibilities across a range of areas. It features over 2,700 searchable questions and answers, developed from real-life inquiries received by CAB offices.

Phone: 0800 367 222

Email: see local CAB for email information

Web link: www.cab.org.nz/

A government provided resource that offers information about family law and the Family Court. It covers topics such as separation, care of children, relationship property, family violence, and child support. The site outlines legal processes, available services, and what to expect when engaging with the Family Court. It is designed to help individuals and whānau understand their options and responsibilities when navigating family-related legal matters.

It includes a searchable directory of providers offering Parenting Through Separation courses and Family Dispute Resolution mediation services. These services are designed to support out-of-court resolution of parenting arrangements and may help individuals understand their options before engaging with the Family Court.

Phone: 0800 268 787 (0800 COURTS)

Web links:

Family

Service directory

A government provided resource that offers navigation support for individuals and whānau engaging with the Family Court. Kaiārahi – Family Court Navigators help users understand court processes, access out-of-court services, and stay involved in proceedings related to the care of children. The service is free.

Phone: 0800 268 787 (0800 COURTS)

Email: Kaiarahi@justice.govt.nz

Web link: www.justice.govt.nz/

A government provided resource that offers information for individuals navigating separation or divorce in Aotearoa New Zealand. It outlines key steps in the process, including making separation agreements, arranging care of children, and applying for a divorce through the Family Court. The site also includes links to related services and support options, helping users understand what is involved when ending a relationship.

Web link: www.govt.nz/

A government provided resource that offers information about financial considerations when a relationship ends. It outlines how relationship property may be divided, explains the legal framework around assets such as the family home and KiwiSaver, and provides general guidance on organising finances.

Phone: 0800 345 123 (text 4029)

Email: help@moneytalks.co.nz

Web link: sorted.org.nz/

A resource that provides information about legal matters that may arise when a relationship ends in Aotearoa New Zealand. It covers separation, division of relationship property, and care of children. The site outlines how the law applies to different types of relationships, including married, civil union, and de facto partnerships, and explains key legal concepts such as guardianship and child support.

Web links:

Relationship ending

Relationship property

Children

A resource that provides research-informed guidance on dividing relationship property following separation. Developed by legal academics, the guide outlines key legal concepts under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 and offers practical considerations for individuals navigating property division. It includes checklists, decision-making pathways, and information about when legal advice may be needed.

Web link: www.otago.ac.nz/

A youth-focused resource that helps young people understand their rights at home and within their family. It covers a range of topics including parental responsibilities, family violence, foster care, child support, and what happens when parents separate. The site also includes guidance on leaving home, changing a legal name, and what steps can be taken if a home environment is unsafe.

Phone: 0800 884 529

Email: legal@youthlaw.co.nz

Web link: youthlaw.co.nz/

Kōnae is a resource produced by Citizens Advice Bureau for individuals seeking access to records created about themselves or their whānau by state agencies, faith-based institutions, or other organisations involved in decisions around care or guardianship. These records are often referred to as care records or welfare files. The site provides guidance on rights under the Privacy Act and Official Information Act, including how to request personal information, seek corrections, understand redactions, and explore options for claims and redress.

Web link: https://www.konae.org.nz/

A directory of support services for people experiencing or affected by family violence or sexual violence.

Web link: www.vine.org.nz/