A new text message reminder service is now available for those appearing in the District Court.

Justice Minister Amy Adams says the new service offers defendants the option to receive an automated text message the day before their hearing - reminding them of the date, time and location.

She says many criminal cases are cancelled because the defendant simply doesn't show up.

The service will initially be offered to criminal defendants with the intention to extend it to family and civil court users and dispute tribunal users in the near future.