An independent body will be established to strengthen and defend the integrity of the sport and leisure system.
“Over the years, there have been a number of reports into various sports in which players at all levels, from elite to grassroots, have been let down by the system in some way.”
“As Sport and Recreation Minister, protecting and promoting integrity in sport and recreation is a top priority for me, and this new body is a step in the right way,” Grant Robertson said.
Drug Free Sport NZ, as well as some of Sport NZ’s integrity activities, such as the recently established independent Sport and Recreation Complaints and Mediation Service, will be merged into the new body.
The new organization will also be in charge of enforcing a National Code of Sport Integrity.
“At this time, a variety of institutions and organizations play a part in integrity. An autonomous entity, according to the Integrity Working Group, would allow for a simpler, more accessible, and participant-centered approach.
“Both Drug Free Sport NZ and Sport NZ contribute to maintaining sport’s integrity.
“It’s critical that the new institution retains this knowledge and performs the responsibilities that these two organizations do, while also expanding capacity,” Grant Robertson said.
Further engagement with the industry will be conducted by an independent Integrity Transition Committee during the next phase of work on the scope of the new body and the formulation of the Code.
Doug Martin, a former Deputy State Services Commissioner, will serve as the committee’s chairman.
Don Mackinnon and DFSNZ Chairperson Tim Castle are among the seven members of the committee, which also includes Alexis Pritchard, Tim Castle, Dean Murphy, Traci Houpapa, and Sarah Murray. Following an external recruitment process, Rebecca Rolls, who has stepped down as Sport New Zealand’s Diversity and Inclusion Manager, will work alongside the committee as Integrity Transition Director.
The corporation’s creation will also necessitate legislation, which is expected to be filed early next year with the goal of establishing the new body in 2024.