From Robyn’s Desk

Giving Matters June 23 2026

Tēnā koutou katoa 

We have had a busy time since our last edition of Giving Matters. Read on to find out what we’ve been focused on! 

Proposed changes to the New Zealand Donation Tax Credit Cap  

An important role held by Philanthropy New Zealand is around ensuring the collective voices of our members are heard on topics that have an impact on our mahi. The Government’s recent Budget 26 announcement regarding the proposed changes to the New Zealand Donation Tax Credit Cap has mobilised us to raise our concerns with Hon Nicola Willis as Minister of Finance, Hon Simon Watts as Minister of Revenue, Hon Louise Upston as Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, and Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, via a letter co-signed by me on behalf of a large group of charities, philanthropics and individuals concerned by the budget announcement. 

We have requested that the Government reconsider whether this instrument is the appropriate response to the problem it is trying to solve. We have outlined the real impacts charities are already reporting related to donors notifying reductions in their giving next year, if this change is implemented. I personally have heard how for one organisation, this translates to the loss of a staff member delivering to communities on the ground.  

We have asked for time and a genuine process of engagement before a change of this magnitude becomes law. We are ready to provide evidence, facilitate engagement between Ministers and affected donors and charities, and work constructively toward an outcome that serves both the Government's objectives and the communities that depend on a well-funded charitable sector.  

Our strength is in our numbers, the deep knowledge we hold as a body of highly skilled and experienced philanthropic practitioners, and the influence we can exert for the betterment of our sector and the community organisations we partner with. I will keep you up to date with any developments that come about as a result of this mahi. 

Mana-Enhancing Practice in Philanthropy 

We have an excellent in-person event coming up in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland in July titled ‘Letting Go to Lead: Power and Trust in Philanthropy’. It will delve into mana-enhancing practice in philanthropy, the topic of our feature article this edition of Giving Matters. This includes insights from Linn Araboglos (J R McKenzie Trust), Joe Wilson (Len Reynolds Trust and Lots of Little Fires), and Pera Barrett (Kaha Create and Shoebox Christmas Aotearoa) – we’re grateful for their input.  

The event aims to help unpack the question “What is mana-enhancing practice and why is it important for our funding system and communities for funders to adopt?” Speakers will provide practical examples of practices in action.  Register now to secure your place! 

Philanthropy New Zealand Strategic Advisory Group 

I recently had the pleasure of attending the Melbourne launch of Philanthropy Australia’s new strategy, Mobilising Generosity. Shaping the Future. The session explored how stronger partnerships can drive greater social impact. Across discussions, participants reflected critically on power, transparency, and accountability within philanthropy. A shift toward learning-oriented accountability and narrative change was emphasised as essential for sustained systems change.  

Philanthropy New Zealand is soon to embark on work focused on planning and defining its next five-year strategy. We’ve provided all of the details related to this kaupapa in the article below and we’re excited to start this mahi! There will be multiple opportunities for all our members to contribute to this work and inform our new strategy. We encourage you to look out for more information in upcoming editions of Giving Matters. 

Outcomes of AI Webinar 

We were delighted to host the excellent webinar 'Beyond the Hype: A Collaborative Approach to AI in the Funding Sector' facilitated by Lani Evans (Co-Founder and CEO – Fundsorter), and featuring special guests Michelle Baldwin and Rachel Kimber, both of whom have extensive experience in AI and funding in international sectors. Please contact Gin for the recording if you’d like to listen to it.  The Fundsorter team is offering a free eight-week AI course for charities which you can register for via https://forms.gle/4MvrQScFYh6urv1n9. This is open to all charities, and we highly recommend taking part! 

Bolstered by all of the great ideas offered by attendees regarding next steps, we are working on a plan for a community of practice for our members and will be sharing information on soon. We will be aiming to make this an accessible resource, with a hybrid of in-person and online gatherings to maximise collaboration. Watch this space for progression of this kaupapa.  

We hope you enjoy this edition of Giving Matters. If you have anything you'd like us to share with your fellow Philanthropy NZ members, please email Gin Mabey at gin@philanthropy.org.nz. 

Ngā mihi  

Robyn