Integrity Code consultation

Better outcomes for participants are most likely to be achieved by supporting organisations to improve how they prevent and respond to integrity issues.

Safety and human rights are at the centre, including the right to be free from discrimination and to be treated fairly.

As a participant, benefits of the Integrity Code are that it:

• sets out guiding values you can use to advocate for safe and fair treatment
• sets consistent standards your sport and recreation organisations need to meet to prevent and address harmful behaviour
• sets clear expectations about how you should expect to be treated by your organisation and fellow participants
• gives the Commission powers to intervene on your behalf where things have gone wrong and hold people accountable where necessary.

The Integrity Code responds to our Tiriti o Waitangi obligations

We heard from Māori how positive experiences in sport and recreation are often those that are strongly values based and outcomes focused. We also heard that many Māori have had poor experiences in sport and recreation, commonly with racism and discrimination.

The Integrity Code enhances integrity by promoting values in the sport and recreation sector. These values, which include whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and hauora, are drawn from te ao Māori but are relevant for everyone in sport and recreation.

The Integrity Code also incorporates tikanga Māori into how the Integrity Code is implemented, both within the sport and recreation sector and by us. This includes, for example, requiring the Commission’s disciplinary panel to consider opportunities to incorporate tikanga Māori.

Clause 19 of the Integrity Code elaborates on our te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations. This includes working in partnership with Māori organisations, recognising the autonomy of Māori sport and recreation organisations, and facilitating tikanga-based dispute resolution. This clause only applies to the Commission.