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 protections for equity and collective wellbeing, while sidelining Te Tiriti and the environment entirely”.
The Len Reynolds Trust is a Waikato-based philanthropic funder focused on improving outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi, whānau and the environment. The Trust works alongside kaupapa Māori, rural and grassroots organisations - groups who stand to be disproportionately affected by the proposed changes.
Gibson warns that the Bill’s so-called regulatory “principles” are neither neutral nor values-free.
“This legislation embeds an ideological agenda that elevates market freedoms above all else — at the expense of the environment, public health, and social justice,” she said. “Under this Bill, addressing inequity could be labelled as inefficient or invalid.”
Key concerns outlined in the submission include:
The lack of reference to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which Gibson says amounts to an active undermining of Māori-Crown relations and self-determination.
No mention of the environment or intergenerational wellbeing, despite growing climate and biodiversity crises.
The centralisation of decision-making power in a politically appointed board, with no public accountability.
An ideological bias that reframes equity and regulation as threats, not tools for positive change.
“We are deeply concerned about the precedent this sets. It’s a quiet but dangerous shift — placing more power in the hands of a few, while silencing communities and future generations,” Gibson said.
Have Your Say – Submissions Close 23 June
The Len Reynolds Trust is encouraging everyone who cares about democracy, justice and the environment to make their voices heard.
Submissions on the Regulatory Standards Bill can be made through the New Zealand Parliament website by 1pm, Sunday 23 June 2025.
🔗 Click here to make a submission on the Regulatory Standards Bill.