"In today's world of cyber-crime, institutions and banks are continually tightening their procedures so we are confronted more and more with statuary declarations and affidavits. We are also seeing more citizens withdrawing from their KiwiSavings."
JPs are now expected to become accredited through the JP Royal Federation.
"This means we log into the federation website and sit a 50-question exam. We need at least a 90 per cent pass rate to pass," Barrie says.
"Accreditation is not compulsory but I'm pleased to say almost all of our local JPs are accredited - which I believe to be the highest percentage in New Zealand."
The last day the service desk will be open this year is December 19. The JPs will be having an end-of-year morning tea but there will still be two JPs on duty.
The service desk will resume business again on January 9 from 10am.
During the Christmas period break the JPs are available if required.
"If they're required check the yellow pages or Google find a JP in Stratford and make your selection."