The relatively informal atmosphere in the Queenstown District Court has been changed to conform to a national initiative to have all opening, adjournment and closing announcements in all district, family and youth courts spoken in both te reo Maori and English.
The registrar used the Maori phrases for the first time during the latest list day on Monday, after the initiative by the District Courts Heads of Bench, supported by the Ministry of Justice, was introduced to coincide with Maori Language Week from July 23.
"Turituri mo Tona Honore, te Kaiwhakawa, Taki tu" will be said in court, followed by the translation "Silence for His/Her Honour the Judge. All stand".
Other phrases said in both languages declared the district, youth, or family court open, adjourned, or resumed.
Chief District Court Judge Jan-Marie Doogue said in a statement the introduction of the Maori language was a historic change in the district court process.
"We wanted a practical way for district courts to recognise te reo Maori as an official language of New Zealand," she said.
"The Maori language is already established in some courts, such as the Maori Land Court, Waitangi Tribunal, Rangatahi Youth Court and Matariki Court.
"It will enhance proceedings and show appreciation for the cultural significance of the language in the court environment."
Ministry of Justice district court general manager Tony Fisher said a training programme was in place for staff to familiarise themselves with the Maori phrases.
"It's a great opportunity for staff to connect with New Zealand's cultural heritage," he said.
