Court Security Officer

Role overview

This permanent full-time position is for a Court Security Officer at Taupō District Court in Waikato, New Zealand. The role exists to help create a safe, secure, and respectful court environment so the public can access justice without intimidation or violence.

The work is varied and people-focused. You will deal with a wide range of visitors and court participants, build rapport quickly, and help maintain order throughout the court day. The position also offers accredited training and opportunities to progress into management or specialist roles within the justice system.

Teamwork is an important part of the job, and you will be expected to support colleagues, communicate professionally, and represent the uniform to a high standard. The workplace values a supportive culture, a sense of humour, and the ability to be yourself at work.

Key duties

• Welcome and engage with people from diverse backgrounds while helping maintain a safe court environment.
• Carry out security screening and manage CCTV and electronic access control systems.
• Work alongside agencies and stakeholders such as Police, Corrections staff, lawyers, and judicial officers to support safe court proceedings.
• Patrol public spaces, complete building security checks, respond to duress alarms, and identify, address, and report security, health, and safety risks or incidents.

Skills and experience

• Background in customer service, security, defence, or government is helpful, although full training will be provided.
• Comfort using technology in a security setting.
• Ability to use de-escalation techniques when dealing with difficult situations.
• Physical capability to complete full-contact officer safety training and meet qualification standards.
• A full, clean New Zealand driver licence and a clean criminal record are required and must be maintained.
• Awareness of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, plus an understanding of Tikanga Māori and wider cultural matters relevant to the role and the Ministry of Justice.

Training and development

• Fully funded health, safety, and security qualification training.
• Training in the use of x-ray equipment, walk-through and handheld metal detectors, SRBA, RT, and handcuffing.
• Exposure to legislation, challenging situations, and varied work that helps build confidence and experience.
• Access to study options and some leadership development opportunities.

Working pattern and additional details

The role is based on a 40-hour Monday to Friday schedule, with paid overtime available when additional cover is needed. Rostered hours may also include a minimum three-hour shift on Saturdays.

Although Taupō District Court is the main base, you may occasionally be required to work in nearby courts when operational needs change. In those cases, the Ministry covers travel costs.

Benefits

• 4.4 weeks of annual leave.
• Access to an online professional development portal.
• Membership in inclusive and proactive networks.
• A varied role that helps broaden your skills and career experience.

Salary

The salary range for this position is NZD 60,729 to NZD 80,794 per year. The starting salary will depend on your skills and experience.

Application notes

Applications close on 28 June 2026, though CVs may be reviewed as they are received and shortlisted candidates could be invited to interview before the closing date. Candidates should submit a CV and cover letter as part of the online application process. For questions, contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz.

About the employer

The Ministry of Justice is committed to strengthening trust in the law of Aotearoa New Zealand and is an inclusive employer welcoming people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities, and religions.