Ros's Reflection: 1 Sector, 6 Parties Respond Election Panel

Community Networks • June 3, 2026

It’s been a year, hasn’t it? One thing after another for those of us working in the community sector. I guess the end of 2025 wasn’t that great either. We have gone through a prolonged period of feeling like we are going backwards. But nothing prepared us for what feels like a continual assault on our sector.


From drops in funding to proposals to tax our membership fees and social enterprises, to legislative changes requiring Incorporated Societies to amend their constitutions and re-register, the challenges have kept coming. Let’s also mention Charities Services' belief that they are a regulator, the establishment of the Social Investment Agency making funding decisions based on the Government's Integrated Data Infrastructure, and the number of changes being introduced without meaningful consultation or discussion with those at the coalface.


So, it’s election year, isn’t it? We believed it was time to bring these issues, not only for our sector, but for the people of New Zealand, to the forefront of the conversation ahead of the election.


We believe in conversation, and we wanted to hear from the political parties what their responses were to many of these issues and what their upcoming policies might be. Thanks to the incredible help of Sue Barker LLB(Hons) (First Class), BCA, CA, from Charities Law, who went above and beyond, and to the wonderful BNZ for providing an excellent venue. Thanks also to Streamliner for delivering a professional live stream, and of course to our Board and staff, who worked tirelessly to make the event a success. Finally, thank you to Jehan Casinader, our MC.


Did we get answers to the questions? Personally, I don’t think so, but we did learn a few things. There was an overall feeling of camaraderie between the politicians, but I don’t believe that translates into genuine cross-party collaboration. It was simply six people sitting on a panel and not arguing with one another. It’s the budget today. I wonder how much all this good-will we saw towards our sector continues and if the understanding of who and what we are, and what we contribute to the nation is obvious within budget? Crossing my fingers, by the time you read this, you will know.


Ngā mihi nui,

Ros.


Catch up on the kōrero as representatives from six political parties respond to the issues facing New Zealand's community and voluntary sector ahead of November's General Election. Watch the full recording below.



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