Principal Youth Court Judge will resign from the role to become New Zealand's next Children's Commissioner

New Zealand's Principal Youth Court Judge Andrew Becroft will be the next Children's Commissioner.

Social Development Minister Anne Tolley announced his appointment, to replace outgoing commissioner Dr Russell Wills in July.

In order to take up the role Becroft will resign from his position as Principal Youth Court Judge, and will be on secondment from his duties as a District Court judge.

CAMERON BURNELL / FAIRFAX NZ Children's Commissioner Dr Russell Wills has been a staunch advocate for children's best interests during his time as commissioner.

Although the role of Children's Commissioner is full-time, Wills has remained a practicing paediatrician during his tenure.

Becroft's role as a youth court judge however, would present conflicts if he was advocating in relation to Government policies.

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"The Children's Commissioner is an independent advocate for the interests, rights and wellbeing of children in New Zealand," said Tolley.

"Judge Becroft comes into the role at a time of major change and I have no doubt he is the right person at the right time, and that he will do a fantastic job."

Last month, Tolley announced the early steps for a major overhaul of Child, Youth and Family. A widesweeping review recommended changes, including raising the age of care to at least 18.

Incumbent commissioner Wills has been critical of Government policies over child poverty in the past, but described the changes outlined for CYF as "visionary".

Tolley said Becroft's views on restructure would be important.

"His input will be invaluable as we transform our care and protection system through the radical changes I recently announced, to focus on the short and long-term wellbeing of our children through to adulthood.

"Judge Becroft's experience of dealing with troubled and at-risk young people will be vital in the development of a youth justice service aimed at preventing offending and reoffending as part of the major overhaul," she said.

"His opinions will also be important as we investigate raising the youth justice age to include 17-year-olds."

Tolley said Wills had carried out "tremendous work" during his time in the role.

"He has never shied away from voicing strong opinions, always with the best interests of children in mind, which is crucial to the job of Commissioner."

Becroft said his appointment as Children's Commissioner was "a genuine privilege at a crucial time".

Tolley told him on Monday of his selection.

He said the report had a strong focus on children from birth to seven years, which he believed was vital because it meant problems could be identified earlier to ensure better futures for young people.

"From 15 years in youth court, this is inescapable."

Of the 1982 offenders in youth court last year, CYF had prior involvement in about 67 per cent of cases, he said.

While reluctant to comment on key areas he wanted to address until he started the two-year job on July 1, he said New Zealand had a proud history of producing some top young people, but failed badly for those at the bottom end, attracting harsh criticism from UNICEF.

"I think we need to be much more honest that in our communities in all our suburbs, some very serious neglect and abuse is occurring. There needs to be more debate about it."

Becroft was looking forward to the role's independence and ability to comment on public policy.

He would remain Principal Youth Court Judge until starting the new job, which covered children and young people from birth to 18 years.

The appointment has been welcomed across the political divide, with both Labour and the Greens voicing their pleasure.

Labour's children's spokeswoman Jacinda Ardern said it was "brilliant" news.

"A proven advocate for young people & a great appointment," she tweeted.

Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei said he was a "fantastic appointment".

"Andrew Becroft has been a brave champion for children, young people and for their right to justice and it's exciting to hear he has accepted this role as Children's Commissioner," she said.

"As a Youth Court Judge, Andrew Becroft has seen the consequences of poverty, neglect, and inequality and, even in his position as a judge, was working towards the solutions.



"I also want to take this opportunity to thank Russell Wills for his tireless advocacy for children and especially his brave work to tackle child poverty and cause others to care enough to act."