New Appointments to Charities Registration Board to Boost Expertise in Governance

Experienced Leaders Roger Holmes Miller and Tarita Hutchinson Bring Extensive Legal and Philanthropic Insight.

Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Louise Upston has announced the appointment of Mr. Roger Holmes Miller and Ms. Tarita Hutchinson to the Charities Registration Board, marking a significant enhancement in its governance and decision-making capacity.

“Their appointments strengthen the Board’s ability to make balanced, timely decisions while ensuring the effective operation of the charitable sector,” said Ms. Upston.

Expanded Board Strengthens Oversight

The appointments follow a legislative amendment to the Charities Act 2005, which increased the Board’s membership from three to five. This expansion aims to support the registration and deregistration of charitable entities more efficiently, fostering robust oversight of New Zealand's over 28,000 registered charities.

“Their combined legal, regulatory, and governance expertise, coupled with a deep understanding of the charitable and philanthropic sectors, makes them ideal for these roles,” Ms. Upston said.

Extensive Experience of Appointees

Roger Holmes Miller:

• A barrister, solicitor, and Notary Public, Mr. Miller served as the inaugural Chair of the Charities Registration Board from 2012 to 2021.
• In 2022, he was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to governance and the community.
• He brings extensive leadership experience, currently serving as Chair of the Performing Arts Foundation of Wellington.
• Mr. Miller’s past roles include Chairmanship of various organisations such as Porirua City Council Community Services Boards, Care NZ Manaaki, Scots College Wellington Foundation, Ski Racing New Zealand, and Snow Sports New Zealand.
• He has also provided voluntary services as an honorary solicitor for St James Theatre and Opera House, Mary Potter Hospice, and other organisations.

Tarita Hutchinson:

• A Trustee of Bay Financial Mentors – Te Awhi Noa, Ms. Hutchinson has substantial expertise in legal and regulatory administration of trusts, foundations, and philanthropic entities.
• Her not-for-profit experience includes serving on the Trust Investment Committee and with Volunteer Services Abroad.
• She previously held senior roles at Southpac Group, including director and chief executive positions, further enhancing her fiduciary credentials.

Focus on Strengthening the Sector

The Board’s role in regulating New Zealand’s charitable entities is vital to maintaining public trust in the sector. With these appointments, the Board is better equipped to handle the increasing complexity of the charitable landscape and foster compliance with the Charities Act.

“I look forward to the contributions of Mr. Miller and Ms. Hutchinson as they bring their wealth of knowledge and experience to their new roles,” Ms. Upston concluded.

The strengthened Board will play a key role in supporting New Zealand’s growing charitable sector, ensuring it continues to thrive and serve communities effectively.