Court video-link project moves off red alert after business case approved
A project to expand the use of audio-visual links in courts has moved off the government's highest risk rating after its funding case was approved.
The project to expand audio-visual links in courts, known as the Remote Participation project, is part of Te Au Reka, the New Zealand Justice Ministry's $170 million digitisation programme. It had been rated 'red', meaning looking unachievable, according to RNZ. The most recent review rated it 'amber', meaning it has significant issues that could be managed.
A Gateway review in June found the business case presents a compelling case for investment. The review found it is strongly supported by all sector agencies and the judiciary without exception.
Cabinet approved the business case in August and directed the Justice Ministry to begin designs. Phase 0 of the project continues to mid-2027.
Justice Ministry deputy secretary Paula Knaap said no new funding would be considered until the project produced three more business cases and controls.
The project depends on setting up a highly secure and reliable digital network and devices across many courts and tribunals. It ran into delays choosing the technology.
Te Au Reka is a digital case and court management system intended to modernise how New Zealand's courts and tribunals function. Its Courts Portal will let lawyers and clients file documents, make payments, track case progress and access court information online in one place, according to The Lawyer. It will be introduced in the Family Court in stages, beginning with registry and judicial functions in Christchurch and Ashburton from 23 November 2026, according to the Justice Ministry.
