Minister Surprises Not-For-Profit and Banking Sectors’ Audience

Communications Officer • June 28, 2023

Minister Surprises Not-For-Profit and Banking Sectors’ Audience

Last night the Hon. David Parker surprised launch attendees by asking Minister of Consumer Affairs to also address the audience at Community Networks Aotearoa’s launch of the ‘Better Banking’ report. Minister Parker acknowledged the importance of the report, and that that was shown by the attendance of so many MPs at a pre-election event.

Minister Duncan Webb also spoke to the importance of this research and how it will help the Sector considering the upcoming Commerce Commission investigation of banks. Both Ministers praised the work of CNA, the quality of the research, and how it brings to light mahi that can be ‘nudged along’ by Government. Both spoke highly of how impactful the reports finding and recommendations on the Banking sector can be.

The research, a first of its kind in Aotearoa New Zealand, shed light on the significant challenges faced by small to mid-sized Not-for-Profit organisations when dealing with banks. It aimed to explore potential strategies for improving banking services and addressing the specific needs of community organisations, allowing them to focus more on their valuable work.

The research was conducted through a sector-wide online survey and in-depth interviews with representatives from diverse community organisations across Aotearoa. It achieved its key objectives of identifying challenges, assessing their impact, and collaborating with stakeholders to find solutions.

Ros Rice, Executive Officer for Community Networks Aotearoa, emphasized the importance of this research, stating,

"This research is an extremely important milestone towards bringing about positive change in the banking experiences of Not-for-Profit organisations. By collaborating with the Government and the banking sector, we can identify solutions that will enable community organisations to focus on their core missions and maximize their impact on the communities they serve."

Community Networks Aotearoa has engaged in discussions with various stakeholders, including the Banking Ombudsman, Aotearoa/New Zealand Banks, the National Association of Bankers, Consumer NZ, The Commerce Commission, CAB NZ, Digital Identity NZ, and the Reserve Bank, among others. Furthermore, CNA is collaborating with the Ministry of Justice to address these issues and drive meaningful change that will benefit all Not-For-Profit organisations across Aotearoa.

The research project was made possible by the generous support of the JR McKenzie Trust and the Todd Foundation. Economic Anthropologist, Dr. Jane Horan, led the research team, ensuring rigorous analysis and comprehensive insights.

For more information about the "Better Banking for All" research project, please visit our banking page.

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Hapori Aotearoa Conference Wrap-Up

By Community Networks • March 10, 2025

Last week Patrick represented CNA at the Hapori Aotearoa – Growing Communities Together in sunny Tauranga presented by Inspiring Communities and the Tauranga City Council. A two-day conference focused on providing practical resources amplifying community development. With each day having multiple concurrent workshops there were difficult (and esciting) choices to be made. The hottest topics were Social Return On Investments / Social Investment, Te Tiriti, and (no surprise) funding within the Sector. There were great speakers and a lot of table korero, spilling of tea, and sharing ideas and resources. Did you know there is a Regional Data Explorer on the Social Investment Agency website ? How might organisations use this to target their mahi and applications? “The Social Investment Agency’s Regional Data Explorer supports access to data for regional and sub-regional decision-making. It brings together 70 datasets or 'indicators' which can be filtered to meet a particular need." Another great workshop (Belinda Gorman ) looked into connecting with businesses to explore various ways of funding. Looking at alignment, how to approach and creating that relationship. One contribution we were able to make was a handy dandy doc on how to use the free version of ChatGPT to create a start – how to create a document that begins your journey on support, sponsorship and funding. Here it is – Using ChatGPT to Get $. And it was a great chance to catch up with Members – SociaLink (also a supporter of the conference); Volunteer Kapiti and Community Networking Trust. It was a time to catch up with friends from other organisations and to make new connections, both strengthening our reach around the Motu. Whilst conferences are expensive, attending can hit many birds with one stone and its important to get out of your own area, headspace to remind yourself that you are not alone in what’s going on; that there are people with ideas around you; and that (while it can be a draining experience) it is a fantastic way to recharge your spirit. We look forward to hosting our Members at our Members’ Only Hui on Friday, 7th November in Te Whanganui-a-Tara /Wgtn for exactly those reasons. Oh, did I mention it’s also our 50th Anniversary celebrations? Patrick Davies, Engagement Officer

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