Justice boss won't step down after review reveals culture marred by leadership issues

Review finds leadership problems

Justice Secretary Andrew Kibblewhite says he won't step down after a review revealed leadership and accountability issues in the ministry.

Former Lotto presenter suspended

Former Lotto presenter Russell Harrison was suspended for five years on full pay - more than $500,000 - as he faced charges relating to organised crime.

Public Service Commission review

The Public Service Commission carried out the review and described the Harrison case as a microcosm for broader findings.

Leadership accountability issues

The review found leaders were not sufficiently focused on public trust, too accepting of flawed internal advice, and overly concerned about legal action.

Kibblewhite's response

Kibblewhite said he would 'grab that with both hands' to lead changes despite the report's findings.

“I'm grabbing that with both hands”

Justice system under pressure

The report highlighted a justice system under 'intense pressure' with persistent, complex challenges and rising service expectations.

Staff report confusion

Staff said strategy documents were 'overly bland at best and at worst confusing' with no clear plan for addressing backlogs.

Te Au Reka digital system

Te Au Reka, a new digital case management system, is a major court administration reform representing significant investment.