Your appeal / New Zealand
Appeals in New Zealand
An automatic right of appeal, about 20 working days to use it, and an independent commission if that is not enough.
Your right of appeal
You have an automatic right to appeal against conviction, grounded in the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act. The time is 20 working days, and it can be extended at any time. The sources we could read differ on whether that runs from the conviction or from the sentence, so act on the earlier date and ask a lawyer to confirm.
If you are out of time
The court weighs the public interest in finality against your interest in an appeal. Short, explained delays are more likely to succeed. After many years, an extension is given only in very exceptional circumstances. Reasons that can help include youth, trouble getting competent advice, and a legal issue that emerged later.
Going further
Second or further appeals need leave of the higher court. The Supreme Court grants leave if it is necessary in the interests of justice, which can include a matter of general or public importance, or that a substantial miscarriage of justice may have occurred or may occur.
The Criminal Cases Review Commission
Te Kāhui Tātari Ture is open to anyone convicted in New Zealand who believes there may have been a miscarriage of justice and has appealed. Applying is free and you do not need a lawyer. You should normally use your first appeal first, though the Commission can act where there are clear and compelling reasons.
It cannot overturn a conviction, decide guilt or innocence, or act as your lawyer. It refers cases to the appeal court, which decides. In October 2026 it announced its eighth referral.
Paying for it
Legal aid is government funding for people who cannot afford a lawyer. Ask about appeals specifically, because we could not confirm the current rules.
What this guide leaves out
New Zealand's legislation site refused automated access, so the statutory points here come from the Commission and from judgments. This guide does not cover the tests for fresh evidence, lawyer error, bail pending appeal, or the prerogative of mercy.
General information only, not legal advice. Do not rely on this page for a deadline in your case.