Here’s a closer look at what to expect during your journey with us and how we make sure your needs are met.
Rest assured that Fair Way's team will guide you through each step along the way.
If you need any support, please call us on 0800 77 44 20.
What you can expect
The Family Dispute Resolution process is designed to support you at every stage.
Family Dispute Resolution
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Your first step
Can't agree on your children's care? Apply for FDR.
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Getting started
Applying is the first step. You can use our simple online form or call us on 0800 77 44 20 if you need help.
Our team will review your information to see if mediation is suitable.
If it is, we will contact the other person and invite them to participate.
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Getting ready for mediation
Once everyone agrees to proceed, we focus on getting you ready.
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Your 'Getting ready' call
We will call you individually. This is a dedicated conversation where we will:
Answer all your questions and walk you through the process
Learn more about you, your tamariki, and your situation
Discuss any special requirements you may have for the mediation.
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Your needs
We are committed to providing a process that is safe, accessible, and culturally responsive.
Please let us know if you have any specific needs. We can arrange:
Interpreter or NZ Relay services
Venues that meet mobility needs
Support for vision or hearing impairments
A tikanga-based mediation approach.
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Your child's views
We have two ways to ensure your child's needs are central to the process:
For younger children: we provide resources to help you understand their developmental needs.
For children over 6: with permission, a trained practitioner can meet with them to ensure their voice is heard and their feelings are understood.
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Choosing a mediator
We have highly trained family mediators across Aotearoa.
You can read their profiles and we will work with all parties to agree on a mediator who suits your needs.
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Helpful resources
We will also provide you with resources to help you prepare for the mediation session.
This preparation helps you think about what you want to achieve and ensures you get the most out of the process.
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Mediation
Your mediator supports you each step of the way.
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Meeting your mediator
You will each have a private, one-on-one meeting with your mediator.
Your mediator get in touch to arrange this first meeting. This can be held over the phone, online, or in person.
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The mediation
Your mediator will arrange the joint session, which can be held online or at a suitable venue near you.
During this meeting, everyone comes together to discuss the issues and create a parenting plan, always keeping the best interests of your children at the heart of the conversation.
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After mediation
Your mediator will draft a plan summarising any agreements reached. You can keep this private or apply to have it made into a Court Order.
If you can’t agree on all issues, the mediator will explain the next steps, which may include applying to the Family Court.
Frequently asked questions
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Getting legal advice
It can be useful to understand your legal rights and obligations.
You can get legal advice at any step in the FDR process, including before you sign an agreement.
You might be eligible for the free Family Legal Advice Service (FLAS). Visit the Ministry of Justice website justice.govt.nz/family or call 0800 2 Agree (0800 224 733) to find out more about FLAS.
If you don’t already have a lawyer, let us know. We can refer you to Portia, a specialist family law firm who provide services online and in person.
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How mediation works
Mediation is a process that enables all parties involved to talk in a confidential and safe environment. Find out more about the mediation itself.
Separation and shared property
We can also help create a separation agreement or shared property arrangement. For more information, view our Relationship property page.