Justices of the Peace from throughout the Bay of Plenty stood together today to celebrate a significant milestone in the national association's history - 200 years since the first JP set foot in New Zealand.

About 140 JP's along with dignitaries, including Tauranga MP Simon Bridges and Independent MP Brendan Horan, were present for the ceremony at Baycourt hosted by Tauranga City Mayor Stuart Crosby and Western Bay of Plenty Mayor Ross Paterson.

Paulo Leaso receiving his 30 year of service award from Mayor Stewart Crosby. Photos: Tracy Hardy.

Graeme Hayley receiving his 30 year of service award from Mayor Ross Paterson.

Bay of Plenty Justice of the Peace Association vice president Tony Young says today is about marking 200 years since missionary Thomas Kendall JP stepped ashore at Waitangi on November 12, 1814.

Established in 1938, the Bay of Plenty Justice of the Peace Association spans from Katikati to Te Puke with about 225 JP's contributing hundreds of hours of voluntary service to the community.

Adding to the festivities is a number of achievements and accolades being handed down to long-serving Bay JP's.

JP's receiving certificates for 30 years of service – dating back to 1984 – are; Graeme Hayley, Walter Kerr, Paulo Leaso and John Roake.

Badges for retired status are; Wiremu Hiamoe, appointed in 1992, Helen Watson, appointed 1993, and Dallas Winch appointed in 1985.

Tony says everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves at the ceremony and gives special mention to two mayors for helping celebrate the momentous occasion.

'We just talked to Graeme Kitto [Royal Federation President] and he doesn't know any other organisation that has done 200 years' service in New Zealand,” says Tony.

'It's very special considering we have just had the 150th of the Battle of Gate Pa so an extra 50 years before that is quite considerable.”

Walter Kerr receiving his 30 year of service award from Mayor Ross Paterson.

John Roake receiving his 30 year of service award from Mayor Stewart Crosby.