Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000

In deciding the appeal, the Magistrates Court—

is not bound by the rules of evidence; and

must comply with natural justice.

The Magistrates Court may—

confirm the commissioner’s decision; or

set aside the commissioner’s decision; or

set aside the commissioner’s decision and substitute another decision the court considers appropriate.

If the Magistrates Court confirms the commissioner’s decision, section 697(4) has effect in relation to the confirmed decision as if the date for payment of the amount required to be paid under the letter of demand were a date that is 28 days after the date of the Magistrates Court’s decision.

If the Magistrates Court substitutes, for the commissioner’s decision, another decision requiring the payment of an amount—

the amount payable must be paid within 28 days of the decision; and

if any part of the amount is not paid, section 697(4), to the extent it relates to the recovery of an unpaid amount, applies to the amount.