"The new Oranga Tamariki Legislation ... is essentially of the same foundations but probably even stronger.
"We've got a chance this time to do what we didn't do in 1989, bring about a true revolution working with whanau, hapu and iwi and Oranga Tamariki."
Judge Becroft said it would demand a comprehensive shift so there was genuine partnership with iwi and delegation of powers where appropriate.
"That means for instance when a child is at risk of removal, the whakapapa links of that child will have to be found, iwi will have to assist.
"I said at the outset revolution isn't usually the word that a Children's Commissioner who is a judge would use.
"But arguably the 1989 legislation set out a blueprint for a revolution in its partnership with whanau hapu and iwi."
The new Oranga Tamariki legislation Judge Becroft was talking about is due to come into force from July 1 next year.