Judge Frances Eivers has been appointed New Zealand’s new Children’s Commissioner.
Judge Eivers (pictured), who is currently a District Court Judge in Manukau, will take up the role on 1 November 2021. She has been appointed for two years.
The Children’s Commissioner is an independent Crown Entity and advocates for the interests, rights and wellbeing of children and young people.
“Judge Eivers has extensive experience in the rangatahi courts, as well as practising law both in New Zealand and internationally,” said Social Development and Employment Minister, Carmel Sepuloni.
“She has a strong focus on youth and her experience has given her a deep understanding of the issues facing tamariki and of related legal frameworks.
“Judge Eivers was born in Kawerau and grew up in Te Teko. She is Ngāti Maniapoto and Waikato. Her background gives her the ability, and credibility, to walk in two worlds: te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā.
“I’m very pleased to appoint Judge Eivers to the role at this time of change, and I am sure she will do an excellent job approaching the role in a careful, considered and thoughtful manner.”
The Office of the Children’s Commissioner is about to undergo significant change, with monitoring activities under the Oranga Tamariki Act transferring to the Independent Children’s Monitor. This will allow the Commissioner to focus entirely on the critical role of advocating for our tamariki and rangatahi, the Minister said.
“I am sure Judge Eivers will ensure the Office smoothly transitions through this period of change while continuing to deliver on the advocacy role.
“I also want to acknowledge the fantastic job of the outgoing Commissioner, Judge Andrew Becroft. Since 2016, he has worked tirelessly on behalf of our children and young people and the lives of many young people are better because of his work,” said Ms Sepuloni.
