The New Zealand Bar Association (NZBA) is an incorporated society.

Under our Rules of Association, at Rule 2, the general functions of the NZBA are:

  • To promote and encourage a strong and independent bar.
  • To promote the interests of barristers and the separate independent bar, and the interests of the public in relation to legal representation and the operation of the judicial system generally.
  • To preserve and maintain the independence and integrity of barristers.
  • To promote and encourage a high standard of ethical conduct amongst barristers.
  • To preserve and maintain the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
  • To promote and encourage a high standard of legal representation and advocacy.
  • To promote opportunities for the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge of the law, legal procedure, advocacy, and the conduct of litigation.
  • To promote improved access to the courts and to justice for all persons.
  • To assist in and promote the reform of the law and legal procedure.
  • To discourage and eliminate any form of discrimination among or against barristers of the separate independent bar.
  • To provide assistance and encouragement to barristers at the commencement of their practice at the separate independent bar.
  • To provide means for the amicable and expeditious settlement of differences between barristers, and between barristers and solicitors.

The Association has a Strategic Plan which was finalised in 2018 and is under regular review. Click here to view the Strategic Plan.