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Len Reynolds Trust Calls for Public Action Against “Undemocratic” Regulatory Standards Bill

The Len Reynolds Trust has submitted a strong opposition to the Regulatory Standards Bill, calling it a “Trojan horse for constitutional restructuring” that threatens equity, environmental stewardship, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.Chief Executive Melissa Gibson is urging the public to speak up before submissions close on 23 June 2025.“This Bill utterly unacceptable. It is a fundamental rewrite of our democratic framework, without mandate or public input,” said Gibson. “It strips away prote...

On the Suspension of Māori MPs: A Call to Challenge Colonised Systems and Uplift Our Young People

The Len Reynolds Trust acknowledges the unprecedented 7 to 21-day suspensions of Te Pāti Māori MPs following their performance of a haka in Parliament. While we do not advocate for any political party, we are deeply concerned about the underlying message this sends—especially to rangatahi Māori and to all those striving to be seen, heard, and valued in systems not designed with them in mind.Though the official reason for suspension was the MPs leaving their assigned seats—a breach of...

Licence to Succeed: We Need Safer Roads and Fairer Access - Not Shortcuts and Inequity

The Len Reynolds Trust is urging the Government to rethink aspects of its proposed changes to the Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS), warning that the current approach could compromise safety and deepen existing inequities—particularly for young people and rural learners. CEO Melissa Gibson says the Trust supports efforts to make licensing more accessible and affordable. However, removing the full licence practical test and relying solely on a clean driving record could lower the st...

He Whare, He Oranga - A Home, A Future - Celebrating the opening of Whare Te Ao Āpōpō

Recently, Our CE Melissa Gibson, had the privilege of standing alongside Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa to mark the opening of Whare Te Ao Āpōpō - a place of stability, support, and hope for taiohi (young people) experiencing homelessness or housing instability. ...

Standing for Pay Equity: A Call to Action for a Fairer Aotearoa

The Len Reynolds Trust has spoken out strongly against the Government’s sudden move to dismantle key provisions of New Zealand’s pay equity framework. This decision, made under urgency, is a step backward for fairness and a direct blow to the aspirations of wāhine and communities fighting for justice....

Protecting the Right to Be Seen: Len Reynolds Trust Opposes Erasure of Rainbow and Takatāpui Youth in RSE Curriculum

The Len Reynolds Trust has lodged a formal submission opposing the proposed overhaul of Aotearoa’s Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) guidelines, warning that the new draft risks failing the very young people it is meant to protect.The Trust, which serves tamariki and rangatahi across the wider Waikato region, says the proposed removal or dilution of content related to gender diversity, sexuality, and takatāpui identities amounts to cultural erasure and systemic neglect.“This is ab...

Advocating for Fair Tax Policies that Support Communities

The Len Reynolds Trust has actively engaged in the Inland Revenue’s recent consultation on the taxation of charities and not-for-profits. Led by CEO Melissa Gibson, the Trust’s submission to the Issues Paper: Taxation and the Not-for-Profit Sector calls attention to concerns regarding the potential unintended consequences of proposed tax changes.  Specifically, the submission warns that these changes could have a negative impact on the very communities that not-for-profit organisat...

Tuia – Strengthening a Movement of Rangatahi Māori Leadership

Tuia continues to make a significant impact by empowering over 700 rangatahi Māori through kaupapa Māori values and long-term mentoring. The initiative has grown into a national movement supporting young Māori leaders across Aotearoa.  As Tuia approaches the final two years of our six-year funding commitment, the need to ensure the programme’s long-term impact is critical. We are committed to continuing our support and working to ensure sustained investment to nurture our next gen...

A Fresh Identity: The New Len Reynolds Trust Logo and Our Commitment to Change

The Len Reynolds Trust has launched a new logo that reflects its new strategic priorities and an enduring commitment to fostering intergenerational wellbeing and environmental stewardship in the Waikato region.The design, a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional weaving (raranga), highlights the intrinsic connections between people, the environment, and the values that underpin the Trust’s work. The harakeke (flax) elements within the logo represent growth and vitality, while the interwo...

Creating Safe Spaces and Inclusive Futures

At the Len Reynolds Trust, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for all communities, including rainbow whānau. We believe that every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued.  Our focus on supporting rainbow communities is rooted in our core values of equity, manaakitanga, and social cohesion. From advocating for safer spaces to creating funding opportunities, we are actively worki...

Preserving Taonga: Kiwi Translocation at Maungatautari

The Len Reynolds Trust recently witnessed conservation in action at Maungatautari, where a dedicated team conducted health checks on approximately 20 kiwi as part of a critical translocation effort to Taranaki. Over two days in March, the meticulous work unfolded as conservationists carefully captured and assessed these precious birds before their journey to their new home. The process, carried out with respect and care, exemplifies the commitment required to protect and restore Aotearoa's ...

Strategic Priorities for Lasting Impact: Supporting Māori-Led Solutions and Intergenerational Wellbeing

For nearly six decades, the Len Reynolds Trust has been supporting innovation in community development and environmental restoration across the Waikato region, reflecting the values of its founders, Len and Ada Reynolds. Following 18 months of workshops, consultations, and collaboration with trustees and key stakeholders, the Trust has unveiled a bold new strategic plan....

Small Embers, Big Fires: Collaborating to Build a Youth Hub in Nawton

At the Len Reynolds Trust, we often talk about doing funding differently — being relational, responsive, and recognising the power of collaboration. Recently, we had the privilege of experiencing this first-hand through the incredible journey of supporting the Western Community Centre’s vision for a Youth Hub in Nawton.It began in July 2024, when our Chief Executive, Melissa Gibson, met with Neil Tolan at the Western Community Centre. The idea of a Youth Hub emerged as a spark — a possibil...

Hosting Submissions Parties to Oppose the Treaty Principles Bill

In December 2024, the Len Reynolds Trust partnered with Community Waikato to host submissions parties aimed at opposing the Treaty Principles Bill. These gatherings were about more than writing submissions—they were a powerful act of collective advocacy, bringing together individuals and organisations from across the Waikato to stand up for the mana and intent of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.The submissions parties reflected our shared commitment to empowering communities, amplifying underrepresented ...

Walking Together: A Reflection on the Hikoi to Kirikiriroa and Wellington

In November 2024 we had the privilege of witnessing and participating history as the hikoi moved through Kirikiriroa and later that week arrived at Parliament in Wellington. From the early hours, Wellington was alive with purpose — resonating with unity, strength, and aroha. It was a peaceful, beautiful, and deeply moving moment that will stay with us forever.As an organisation committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the Len Reynolds Trust was proud to support this kaupapa with nearly all...

Behind the Scenes: How We Built the New Len Reynolds Trust Strategy

In 2023, we embarked on an ambitious journey to reshape our strategy—a process that challenged us, inspired us, and left us with something bold and exciting. For those who have ever wondered what it looks like to truly embrace reflection, collaboration, and courage in crafting a new direction, this is our story....