35A Hope Street, Central Dunedin, Dunedin 9016 | Open Mon – Fri 9:00am – 5pm

Mediation Services Dunedin

A Faster, Fairer Alternative to Court

When conflict feels overwhelming there's a better way forward. Mediation helps people resolve disputes privately, cost-effectively, and without the stress of court.

What is Mediation

How we can help

Conflict can arise in any area of our lives, often when we least expect it. Perhaps you are in dispute with a neighbour, fellow trustee or board member, or a staff member of your trust. You may feel you have very little support and no ability to see a way through. You would like to try and resolve the problem without lawyers or the threat of court action, but it isn’t clear where you can safely step to next.

At Blue Door Mediation we provide a collaborative dispute resolution service. We work to ensure that when it comes to difficult conversations, that you are at your best; you feel well supported, and you are able to make good decisions.

As mediators we assist you to disrupt the certainty of knowing and invite you to get curious in a supported space. We can all do better, and it is our focus to help you to do just that.

Find out if Mediation is Right for You
Dunedin Mediation Session

Why Choose Mediation Instead of Court?

Mediation vs Litigation

Mediation(Blue Door) Litigation(Court Process)
Process Flexible and collaborative process focused on resolution. Formal court process governed by strict legal procedures.
Environment Private and less adversarial setting. Public and often adversarial court environment.
Communications Encourages open and constructive discussion. Relies on formal legal communications between parties.
Decisions Parties control and agree on the outcome. A judge imposes a binding decision.
Relationships Helps preserve ongoing relationships. Often damages relationships through conflict.
Costs Generally faster and more cost-effective than litigation. Can be a lengthy process and involve significant legal fees and court costs.
Solutions Allows flexible and practical outcomes tailored to all parties. Limited to remedies available through the courts.

Who Mediation Helps

Mediation for Real-Life Disputes

Family & Relationship Disputes Icon

Family & Relationship Disputes

Mediation helps families and separated couples resolve parenting, relationship property, and communication issues in a respectful and child-focused way.

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Workplace & Employment Issues Icon

Workplace & Employment Issues

Mediation provides employers and employees with a confidential process to address workplace conflicts, grievances, and communication breakdowns.

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Family / Estate Planning / Wealth Transfer Icon

Family / Estate Planning / Wealth Transfer

Mediation helps families navigate estate planning, succession, and difficult conversations with fairness, clarity, and confidence.

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Commercial & Contract Disputes Icon

Commercial & Contract Disputes

Mediation assists businesses and contracting parties to resolve disputes efficiently while preserving valuable commercial relationships.

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Pre-Nuptial Agreements Icon

Contracting Out / Pre-Nuptial Agreements

Mediation helps couples entering a marriage or de facto relationship reach agreement on a Contracting Out Agreement to protect assets and provide certainty for the future.

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Neighbour & Community Conflicts Icon

Neighbour & Community Conflicts

Mediation helps neighbours and community members find practical solutions to ongoing disputes in a cooperative and constructive environment.

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How mediation works

How Mediation Works

The Mediation Process

  1. Initial confidential consultation
    Each participant meets privately with the mediator to discuss their concerns, goals, and expectations in a safe and confidential setting.
  2. Preparation & information sharing
    The mediator provides questions, tools, and a guided workbook to help participants prepare for mediation.
  3. Guided mediation session
    The mediator facilitates a respectful and structured conversation where everyone is heard and supported toward resolution.
  4. Agreement recorded (legally binding if required)
    Any agreed outcomes are documented and tailored to the participants’ needs, helping resolve disputes without court action.
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Is Mediation Legally Binding in New Zealand?

Yes. Agreements reached through mediation can be made legally binding, depending on the type of dispute and how the agreement is formalised.


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What sets us apart?

Our point of difference

  • Experienced, accredited mediators
  • Neutral, independent process
  • Focus on fair, workable outcomes
  • Confidential and respectful approach
  • New Zealand-based expertise
Meet our mediators
Blue Door Mediation Dunedin