The Admission Reference Letter is a crucial document in the New Zealand legal admission process, required by the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006 and its associated regulations. It must be provided by a qualified referee, typically a legal practitioner of good standing, who has known the candidate in a professional capacity. The letter serves as evidence of the candidate's character, integrity, and suitability for admission to the legal profession. The referee must provide specific examples and observations of the candidate's conduct, professional capabilities, and ethical standards. The document is submitted to the New Zealand Law Society and the High Court as part of the admission application process, and the referee must be willing to be contacted for further information if required.

1. Referee Details: Full name, professional title, and contact details of the referee, including their qualification to provide the reference

2. Addressee Information: New Zealand Law Society/High Court details as the intended recipient

3. Candidate Identification: Full name and identifying details of the candidate being referred

4. Professional Relationship: Nature and duration of the relationship between referee and candidate, including specific context of professional interaction

5. Character Assessment: Specific examples and observations of the candidate's honesty, integrity, and professionalism

6. Fitness for Admission: Statement confirming the candidate's fitness and suitability for admission as a lawyer

7. Declaration: Formal statement confirming the truth of the contents and willingness to be contacted for further information