Rotorua’s ageing court facilities are set for a major overhaul after the Government confirmed a $100 million investment through Budget 2026 to rebuild and modernise the city’s justice infrastructure.
Courts Minister Nicole McKee says the funding will support the construction of two new courthouses in Rotorua, including a new High Court and District Court complex aimed at replacing outdated and deteriorating facilities.
The investment follows years of concern from legal professionals, council leaders and community groups over the condition of Rotorua’s current courthouse, which has faced ongoing health and safety issues and operational limitations.
The Government says the redevelopment is designed to improve public access to justice services while creating safer and more efficient environments for court staff, judiciary, lawyers, victims and whānau attending proceedings.
Rotorua has experienced increasing pressure on court services in recent years as population growth, criminal caseloads and family violence matters continue placing strain on existing infrastructure.
Legal advocates have previously warned delays and outdated facilities were affecting the functioning of the justice system in the region, with some court operations limited due to the poor condition of the current buildings.
The Budget announcement is also expected to deliver economic benefits through construction activity, local employment opportunities and associated infrastructure investment across Rotorua.
The Government says modern court facilities are essential to ensuring communities can access timely justice services and maintain confidence in the legal system.
Rotorua’s courthouse redevelopment has been discussed for several years, with previous proposals delayed despite land purchases and earlier signals of Government support for rebuilding work.
The investment now signals a major commitment to justice infrastructure in the Bay of Plenty region ahead of wider Budget announcements.
Community leaders say improved court facilities are particularly important for Rotorua and surrounding communities where Māori are heavily represented across many areas of the justice system.
Advocates continue calling for broader investment not only into court infrastructure, but also prevention, rehabilitation, kaupapa Māori justice approaches and support services aimed at reducing long-term offending and whānau harm.
Construction timelines and further project details are expected to be released as part of the wider Budget rollout.
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