Father’s passport Challenge Rejected in New Zealand High Court

The teenager has been living in New Zealand with her mother for several years. In 2017, an interim parenting order was issued following a custody battle between her mother and her father, who resides in Germany.

In April 2024, the Family Court granted the mother the sole right to sign her daughter’s passport request after the father refused to co-sign.

The father then challenged this decision in the High Court, asserting that, under German law, he held sole custody and therefore the exclusive right to decide on passport matters.

He also claimed his daughter was “kidnapped” to New Zealand in 2015 and accused the lower court of unlawful action.

The Family Court’s decision prioritized the teen’s welfare and best interests, including her desire for her own passport.

Judge Christina Cook explained the girl needed identification for opening a bank account,immigration purposes,medical reasons,administrative tasks,and travel.

“She is resident in New Zealand and ther is no alternative i