Important Facts of the News
- Julie Hardaker and Leighton Evans have been appointed to the Charities Registration Board.
- Jane Wrightson has been promoted as the new Chair of the Board, replacing Gwendoline Keel.
- The appointments were announced by Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Louise Upston.
- The Charities Registration Board oversees registration and deregistration of over 28,000 charities in New Zealand.
- Julie Hardaker is a lawyer and company director with legal and regulatory expertise.
- Leighton Evans is CEO of the Rata Foundation and also serves as a Justice of the Peace.
- The Board functions as an independent decision-making body for charitable entities.
- Outgoing members Gwendoline Keel and Roger Miller were thanked for their service.
Government Expands the Board’s Expertise
New Zealand’s Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Louise Upston has announced the appointment of Julie Hardaker and Leighton Evans to the Charities Registration Board. The decision brings in leaders with substantial experience in law, governance and philanthropy to strengthen the Board’s overall capacity.
Minister Upston noted that both new members bring strong legal and executive backgrounds, adding that their inclusion will help ensure the Board continues to handle its responsibilities with fairness and efficiency, especially when faced with complex cases.
New Chair to Lead the Charities Registration Board
Jane Wrightson, who joined the Board in 2025, has been promoted to Chair. Her appointment marks a shift in leadership as she takes over from outgoing Chair Gwendoline Keel. Wrightson’s background in quasi-judicial and statutory decision-making is expected to guide the Board through nuanced and multi-layered issues in the charitable sector.
Minister Upston extended her gratitude to both Gwendoline Keel and Roger Miller for their significant contributions to the Board and to New Zealand’s wider charities network.
About the Charities Registration Board
The Charities Registration Board operates independently and is responsible for decisions related to the registration and deregistration of charitable organisations across New Zealand. The country currently has more than 28,000 registered charities, reflecting a vibrant non-profit sector that depends on sound governance and legal oversight.
Profiles of the Newly Appointed Members
Julie Hardaker is a practicing lawyer and company director with deep experience in regulatory law. Her work has consistently involved evidence-based decision-making in both legal and quasi-judicial settings. She is recognised for her commitment to ensuring that regulatory frameworks support transparency and accountability in the charitable sector.
Leighton Evans serves as the Chief Executive of the Rata Foundation. His governance experience extends beyond the philanthropic space, with a strong record in fair and unbiased decision-making. As a Justice of the Peace who has presided over cases in the Traffic Court, Evans has developed a robust understanding of regulatory interpretation and legal ethics.
Minister’s Vision for the Future
Minister Upston stated that the combined skills of the newly appointed members and the leadership of Chair Wrightson will enhance the Board’s ability to make balanced, timely and principled decisions. She also expressed confidence that the new composition will help the Board continue to serve the charitable sector effectively.