Applications for the 2018 Queen's Counsel appointment round close by 31 August 2018, the Crown Law Office says.

Applications opened on 1 August and barristers wanting to apply are required to write to the Solicitor-General and to include a completed application form.

New Zealand currently has 119 Queen's Counsel in practice. Queen's Counsel appointed since 2000 had an average of 28 years and 5 months in practice before their appointment.

Appointments of Queen’s Counsel are made by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Attorney-General and with the concurrence of the Chief Justice.

The regulations set a fee of $500 for applicants, reflecting the costs of the appointment process.

The Solicitor-General will consult with the New Zealand Law Society and the New Zealand Bar Association regarding the candidates.

It is expected that appointments will be made in November 2018.