Real estate agent loses challenge over compulsory Māori values course

5th February 2025 By Staff Reporter | news@propertyticker.co.nz | @propertyticker

Real estate agent Janet Dickson has lost her challenge against the Real Estate Authority’s decision to make a Te Tiriti cultural course compulsory.

Justice Helen McQueen dismissed Dickson’s application to the High Court for a judicial review of the authority’s decision in 2023 to make the 90-minute course, Te Kākano, a mandatory part of agents’ continuing professional development (CPD).

Dickson chose not to complete the course as a matter of principle, but under the under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008 the authority is required to cancel an agent’s license if they do not complete their CPD requirements.

Justice McQueen ruled that the authority’s decision was reasonable, legal and valid, meaning Dickson faces being ineligible to practice for five years, pending a ruling from the Real Estate Agents Disciplinary Tribunal.