Gloriavale Trust loses charitable status

22 September 2026

Following an investigation by the Department of Internal Affairs, the Charities Registration Board has determined that the Christian Church Community Trust (the Trust), which supports activities associated with the Gloriavale Christian Community, should be removed from the Charities Register.

The Department's investigation considered a substantial body of evidence, including court and tribunal decisions, interviews, governance and operational records and information provided by other agencies.

In the Board's decision issued today, the Trust will be deregistered with effect from 23 September 2026. The Trust cannot apply for registration again for a period of 3 years.

The decision heavily drew on findings from the Employment Court's Courage and Pilgrim cases, as well as the Teachers Disciplinary Tribunal. These findings described the use of child labour from the age of six in Trust-owned businesses, work carried out in harsh and, at times, dangerous conditions, failures to protect children and workers from harm, and the internal handling and non-reporting of sexual offending against a child at a Trust-owned school.

Significant changes implemented by the Trust in recent years, including the appointment of independent trustees and strengthened governance and safeguarding arrangements, were taken into account. These reforms, and efforts to improve oversight and accountability, were carefully considered during the assessment.

However, the seriousness, scale and duration of the governance and oversight failures led to a finding that trustees had failed in their responsibilities, and that deregistration was in the public interest.

As part of the decision, former trustee Howard Temple was disqualified from holding officer positions in registered charities for the maximum period of five years.

"The Department welcomes this significant decision from the Board." says Charlotte Stanley, Director of Charities Services at the Department of Internal Affairs.

"The Board's decision relates specifically to the Trust's charitable registration. It does not determine the future operation of the religious community, nor does it address questions of criminal liability.”

"This outcome highlights the importance of accountability, effective governance, and demonstrable public benefit within the charitable sector. Maintaining public trust and confidence in registered charities is fundamental to the integrity of New Zealand's charities system.”

"While this is a significant decision, it is also one that reflects the seriousness of the conduct identified and acknowledges the impact on those affected.”

"The Department remains committed to upholding the standards expected of registered charities and ensuring that organisations receiving charitable status continue to meet their legal obligations and operate for the public benefit."

Further information will be considered for release in accordance with the Official Information Act 1982.


ENDS
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