ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the system of juvenile justice adopted in New Zealand under the Children, Young Persons and Their Families Act 1989. A distinction must be drawn between a system which attempts to re-establish the indigenous model of pre-European times and a system of justice which is culturally appropriate. Traditionally, the criminal justice system has given only a minimal role to victims. P. Rock also draws our attention to some potential pitfalls for victims — in particular, the time consumed by meeting with minor offenders for minimal return and the pain caused by meeting with serious offenders. Families participate in the processes of decision-making and are taking responsibility for their young people in most instances. The chapter provides the innovatory features in the New Zealand system — participation by young persons and their families, victims' involvement, consensus decision-making and cultural appropriateness.
