October 13, 2024

New Zealand Government

Wellington City

PART TIME

Charities Registration Board

Charities Registration Board
On behalf of the Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, the Department of Internal Affairs is seeking applications for three positions on the Charities Registration Board.
Charities Registration Board
The Board is an independent body, consisting of up to five members, established under section 8 of the Charities Act 2005 and is responsible for making decisions about the registration and de-registration of charitable entities using its powers under the Charities Act 2005. The Board's function, duties and powers are set out under section 8 and schedule 2 of the Charities Act 2005.
The Department administers the Charities Act 2005 and refers to the Board for decisions, applications for registration, and proposals for deregistration of charitable entities.
Further information on the type of decisions and examples of previous decisions made by the Board can be viewed at:
https://charities.govt.nz/charities-in-new-zealand/legal-decisions/view-the-decisions/
The Board operates in a complex environment shaped by evolving case law. Effectively navigating regulatory challenges involves interpreting and applying the relevant legal framework and using evidence-based reasoning where there is ambiguity.
The charitable sector is characterised by diverse interests and a wide range of perspectives from communities and the public. Board members must act in good faith, with honesty, integrity, with reasonable care, diligence and skill, promoting public trust and confidence in the sector. The Board's decisions subject to public scrutiny so the Board must maintain transparency and accountability in its processes and outcomes and demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
Membership, commitment, and fees
Members of the Board are appointed by the Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector for a term of up to three years and may be reappointed.
Members must possess a high degree of professionalism and demonstrate a strong commitment to dedicating the necessary time and effort to fulfil their responsibilities effectively. This includes a disciplined approach to Board processes and ensuring efficient and responsive decision making.
The Board typically meets for one day every six weeks plus preparation time between one to three days, depending on the complexity of submissions. Members can also expect one to two days of additional meetings to review work drafted by Charities Services in its secretariat function to the Board. It is expected that members can devote sufficient time to prepare for, attend, and contribute to the regular meetings.
Fees are set under the Cabinet Fees Framework at Group 2 Level 3: Statutory Tribunal and Authority, with daily fees for the Chair of $790, and $510 for members. Members are paid for preparation time and meetings.
Skills, knowledge, and expertise sought for the Board
Successful candidates will possess regulatory experience in making informed decisions within a statutory framework, including demonstrating a strong understanding of decision making in the public sector, and effectively balancing compliance with legal requirements.
Applicants must demonstrate the skills and expertise required to succeed in the role:

Sound analytical thinking, reasoning, and judgement, including:
the ability to evaluate information and complex issues within a regulatory or policy context
comfort in interpreting the law, including case law, to make evidence-based decisions in an ambiguous environment where legal or regulatory frameworks may lack clarity; and
a proficiency in upholding the timeliness and integrity of regulatory decision-making functions.
Skill in collaborative decision making, including seeking consensus where possible while working towards a collective decision, and a strong understanding of, and commitment to, collective accountability for Board decisions.
Proven experience in similar regulatory or quasi-judicial decision-making roles that require balancing multiple interests and perspectives, and the ability to approach regulatory decisions with both fairness and cultural sensitivity, recognising the unique needs of charitable organisations serving diverse populations in New Zealand.
A sound understanding of te ao Māori, tikanga, and kaupapa Māori, with specific insight into how Māori are involved in the charitable sector, how Māori values and perspectives shape charitable activities, and how kaupapa Māori charities operate within the regulatory framework.

The following knowledge and experiences may also be beneficial:

An understanding of New Zealand's charitable sector and a good understanding of the Charities Act 2005.
An understanding of how to apply the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti o Waitangi to public sector decision making.

Expression of interest process
Candidates who would like to be considered for appointment to the Board must provide a completed expression of interest form), cover letter, current curriculum vitae, and photo identification (valid driver's license or passport) to appointments@dia.govt.nz by 5pm Monday, 4 November 2024.
More information on the role and the required expression of interest form can be found at http://www.dia.govt.nz/Appointments-to-Statutory-Bodies. Queries can be made by emailing appointments@dia.govt.nz.
To review the full position description, please click here.