Learn how New Zealand’s Family Dispute Resolution process works, including Parenting Through Separation and mediation, with guidance from Core Legal Masterton & Wellington.

Family Dispute Resolution in New Zealand – What You Need to Know

At Core Legal Masterton & Wellington, we know that navigating parenting arrangements after separation can be overwhelming. In most cases, before you can apply to the Family Court for childcare arrangements, you must first go through the Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) process.

This process aims to help families resolve disagreements without the stress, cost, and time of court proceedings, creating better outcomes for children and parents alike.

Step 1: Parenting Through Separation Course

The first stage of FDR is the free Parenting Through Separation course. This four-hour programme (run in one session or two shorter sessions) provides practical advice on supporting your children through family changes.

Key topics include:

• Understanding how separation affects children

• Strategies for creating a safe and supportive environment

• How to prepare a parenting plan

• Tips for communication and co-parenting

You and the other parent usually attend separate sessions to ensure open discussion. Multiple providers run this course nationwide—visit the Ministry of Justice website to find one in your area.

Step 2: Family Dispute Resolution Mediation

After or alongside the course, you’ll move to mediation. This starts with an initial assessment—in person, online, or by phone—where a mediator evaluates your situation and determines if mediation is appropriate.

If suitable, sessions are scheduled to address key issues, such as:

• Ensuring children have a safe, stable home

• Maintaining strong relationships with both parents and extended family

• Considering children’s views in decision-making

• Developing skills to handle future disagreements

Mediators remain neutral—they don’t take sides or make decisions for you. Instead, they help both parties reach workable agreements.

After Mediation

If an agreement is reached, it’s recorded in an Outcome of Family Dispute Resolution form. This can be kept as a private parenting agreement or formalised into a Parenting Order by the court.

If no agreement is reached, you may apply to the Family Court for a decision.

Why Legal Advice Matters

While the FDR process can be completed without legal representation, having guidance from an experienced family lawyer in Masterton or Wellington ensures your rights and your children’s best interests are protected.

At Core Legal, we offer fixed-price initial consultations so you can quickly understand your options and move forward with confidence.

Contact us today to discuss how we can support you through the Family Dispute Resolution process.