Changes within the Ministry Standards Commission

Registrar Transition

Our current Registrar, Wendy Ball, has resigned after serving in this role with exceptional dedication and professionalism. We owe Wendy a tremendous debt of gratitude for her tireless work and commitment over the past two years. Her contributions have been invaluable, and we wish her every blessing for the future.

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Winston McCarthy as our new Registrar, effective 13 February 2025. Winston, a legal practitioner based in Hastings, brings a wealth of experience, having been part of the Royal Commission team and worked extensively in disciplinary tribunal settings across various professions. Winston’s Māori and Samoan heritage will enrich his perspective and approach to this role.

In addition, we have appointed Alice McCarthy, an equal partner in their legal practice, as Deputy Registrar to assist with workload management. Alice has also contributed to the Royal Commission, particularly focusing on the disability sector, and has extensive experience in mental health tribunal work. Both Winston and Alice bring a strong combination of skills, experience, and insight, and we are looking forward to working with them in their new capacities.

Collaboration with Kooyoora Limited

The second major development involves an important enhancement to our complaints process. With the encouragement of the General Synod Standing Committee and in partnership with the Te Korowai team, we have engaged Kooyoora Limited, an experienced organization specializing in independent complaints handling.

Kooyoora Limited, established by the Melbourne Diocese following Australia’s Royal Commission approximately seven years ago, has developed considerable expertise in this area. They now provide services to around seven dioceses in Australia, ranging in size from comparable to many of our dioceses or Hui Amorangi to larger than our entire province.

Their support will focus on receiving complaints, ensuring the welfare of both complainants and respondents, and conducting initial investigations. Over the past four years, we have recognized that greater resourcing in these areas is essential for an effective, independent, and trauma-informed response to complaints. We believe this partnership will significantly enhance the quality and rigor of our complaints process.

Practical Implications

Please note that complainants will continue to use the same contact details (telephone number and email address) currently published on our website and in various locations across the province. The New Zealand-based Registrar will retain responsibility for all key decision-making related to complaints.

To provide clarity on this new process, we have attached a flowchart outlining the responsibilities delegated to Kooyoora Limited and those remaining under the Registrar's oversight.

We are confident that these developments mark an important step forward in supporting a robust and compassionate response to complaints. Thank you for your continued support as we work to strengthen our processes and ensure the well-being of all involved.

Yours faithfully,

Dianne Cameron

Ministry Standards Commission Chair

See previous article on the Diocese of Dunedin complaints process.