Aotearoa New Zealand's trusted family and relationship conflict and dispute resolution specialists
We are here to help you find solutions and move forward, without going to court.
Our services
The FDR Centre has extensive experience in facilitating dispute resolution for parenting and guardianship, relationship property, trusts, wills and estates, elder care, and other family and relationship matters.
Engage with us
For fair, efficient, and cost-effective dispute resolution, reach out to our dedicated Registry team today.
Types of disputes The FDR Centre resolves
Parenting and Guardianship (FDR Mediation)
Elder Care Mediation
Relationship Property
Trusts, Wills, and Estates
Family & Relationship Conflict
Dealing with family conflict is never easy, we can help. At The FDR Centre we are here to help you find solutions and move forward, without going to court.
Your Options
We offer a range of dispute resolution options giving you the choice to adopt a process that best meets the needs of your case.
Mediation
Mediation is a confidential process where a neutral mediator helps parties resolve disputes and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. It's particularly beneficial in preserving ongoing relationships.
Mediation is a helpful option for many family disputes, including Care and Contact (FDR), Trusts, Wills and Estates, Relationship Property, and Elder care. It offers a way to find solutions together in a supportive environment.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a formal process where disputes are submitted to an independent arbitrator. It's based on an agreement between the parties and governed by the Arbitration Act 1996 or the equivalent under the contract's governing law. Under the Arbitration Act 1996, the arbitrator's decision, or award, is binding and enforceable as a court judgment. It is available for all manner of non-care and contact disputes.
Arb-Med
Arb-Med blends arbitration and mediation, offering benefits like speed, flexibility, confidentiality, and enforceability. It aims for good faith negotiation, using the Arbitral Tribunal's powers in a formal process that resumes if mediation fails. It is available for any non-care and contact disputes.
If you are ready to apply, please click the button below or book a free consultation.
Proven success
It’s surprising the number of family and relationship disputes that can be successfully resolved through private mediation and arbitration, without the additional stress of involving the court system, more cost effectively, and in less time!
News & Resources

Use private alternative dispute resolution to solve your family dispute
If you have a family dispute, we can provide alternative dispute resolution (or ‘ADR’) services to help you resolve the dispute out of court. Our services cover a range of

Elder Persons and the Growing Need for Mediation
Background As our population ages, matters relating to ageing have become an increasingly critical issue. From housing and healthcare to financial stability, elder abuse, family dynamics and legal concerns, the

FDR Centre Brochure
The Family Dispute Resolution Centre (FDR Centre) provides the leading forum
for the settlement of a wide range of
family and relationship disputes. Take a look at our brochure to learn more.
Note: Please note that the information contained in this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter and is not intended as legal advice. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances. The content may not reflect current legal developments and is subject to revision without notice.