Julie Hardaker and Leighton Evans have been appointed to the Charities Registration Board, according to Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Hon Louise Upston.
New Members Bring Expertise and Governance Skills
Hon Louise Upston said the new members bring “excellent legal and regulatory expertise in the administration of trusts, foundations, and other philanthropic entities as well as strong governance and executive experience.” She added that these appointments will strengthen the Board’s capacity to make balanced and timely decisions, ensuring effective operation even in complex situations.
Jane Wrightson Promoted to Chair
Jane Wrightson has been promoted to chair of the Board, replacing outgoing chair Gwendoline Keel. Ms Wrightson, appointed to the Board in 2025, brings experience in quasi-judicial and statutory decision-making, applying a principled and practical approach to complex legal frameworks and competing tensions.
Outgoing Members Acknowledged
Hon Upston expressed gratitude to outgoing members Gwendoline Keel and Roger Miller for their contributions to the Board and the wider charities sector.
Board Responsibilities and Backgrounds
The Charities Registration Board is an independent body responsible for registering and deregistering charitable entities in New Zealand. Currently, over 28,000 charities are registered across the country.
Julie Hardaker
Ms Hardaker is a lawyer and company director with a strong understanding of the importance of regulatory and legal frameworks for the sector. Her experience includes evidence-based decision-making in legal, quasi-judicial, and regulatory contexts.
Leighton Evans
Leighton Evans serves as Chief Executive of the Rata Foundation and has extensive governance and decision-making experience. He also serves as a Justice of the Peace, applying his knowledge of regulations and law in Traffic Court decisions.
Looking Ahead
Hon Upston welcomed the new members as they begin their terms and emphasized the importance of their expertise in supporting the Board’s ongoing work to oversee New Zealand’s charitable sector effectively.