Make parenting arrangements
After a separation or change in family situation, it can be hard to figure out how parents, guardians, and whānau can continue to be part of their child’s life.
It helps if everyone can come to an agreement. This is usually quicker, cheaper, and less stressful than going to court. While going to court is usually the last option, it might be what’s needed.
Read more in this section to understand your options both in and out of court.
Appoint, become or remove a guardian
A legal guardian is an adult who is responsible for the upbringing and care of a child. All birth mothers and most fathers are automatically guardians of their child at birth. If parents separate, they’ll still both be guardians and should try to make decisions together about their child. The court can also appoint other people as a guardian.
Read this section to understand more about guardianship, who can be a guardian, and how to appoint or remove someone as a child’s guardian.
Change, enforce or cancel a court order
You can ask the Family Court to change, enforce, or cancel a court order. This may be because someone isn’t following the order, it is no longer in the child’s best interest, or because it is no longer working.
If someone has filed an application, you may receive a Notice of Application. You may have a Parenting Order that says you can only see your child through supervised contact.
This section will help you understand the Family Court process and what you need to do. This information in this section is after an application has been filed or an order has been made for Care of Children matters. If you would like information on making an application for the first time read the section on making parenting arrangements.
Stop or return a child to or from Aotearoa New Zealand
All legal guardians of a child (or everyone named in a ‘Parenting Order’ or ‘Guardianship Order’) must agree before a child can be taken overseas. In some cases, the court may give permission for your child to be taken overseas even if everyone doesn’t agree.
Read this section to find out what your options are if you’re worried someone is planning to take your child overseas without your agreement, if you want to have your child returned to Aotearoa New Zealand, or if you’ve been asked to return a child overseas.
General help and services
A separation or change in family situation can be stressful and overwhelming. There are services and resources to help you understand the best options for you and your whānau.
This section lists a range of services and resources to support you and your whānau through this time. Many services are free, but some may have a cost. Speak to the service provider to find out what fees may apply. In our resource section, you’ll find resources available in different languages including New Zealand Sign Language.