What records does Archives New Zealand have?

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Last updated: January 11, 2025

Archives New Zealand holds records from government and public organisations

Archives New Zealand (Archives NZ) holds records from government and public organisations, dating back to around 1840.

The kinds of records they hold include: 

  • historic court records
  • school archives
  • health, mental health, and welfare records
  • police and prison records. 

Some types of records are restricted. This means you must get permission from the relevant agency to access the records. For example, you might need to contact Oranga Tamariki if you want access to child welfare records. 

The process for accessing restricted records is simpler if you request your records directly from the government agency, instead of Archives NZ. Find out how to request your records from government agencies.Learn more about what records Archives NZ hasopen_in_new