Frequently Asked Questions

FERNZ stands for the Foundation for Equity and Research New Zealand. 

The name reflects our mission to build a fairer, more inclusive society by addressing inequities that affect health and social outcomes across Aotearoa New Zealand. 

FERNZ works in partnership with communities to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive and fully enjoy their rights.

To achieve this, FERNZ undertakes various initiatives, including:

• Establishing Community Action Groups (CAGs) in areas like Karori, Porirua, and Hutt Valley, empowering members to address local challenges and drive positive change.
• Collaborating with government agencies to provide expert advice on policies and practices that promote equity.
• Publishing research and reports that shed light on inequities and offer actionable solutions..

FERNZ works to address inequities affecting communities that include  Māori, Pacifica, Disabled People and Rainbow Communities.

By partnering with these communities, FERNZ aims to create lasting, positive change.

FERNZ is kaupapa Māori-governed, meaning it is guided by Māori principles and values to ensure its work promotes fairness, inclusivity, and respect for all cultures, especially Māori. 

The organization focuses on grassroots initiatives by working directly with communities on local projects, ensuring that solutions are created by and for the people they impact. 

By collaborating with communities, FERNZ empowers them to address real problems and create lasting, positive change. 

This approach makes FERNZ unique in its commitment to equity, inclusion, and meaningful action.   

FERNZ operates across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Our grassroots initiatives/Community Action Groups (CAGs) are currently, successfully operating in the Greater Wellington Region.  

No, FERNZ is not a government organization. 

FERNZ is an independent charitable trust under the Charitable Trusts Act 1957. 

While we collaborate with government agencies by providing expert advice on policies and practices that promote equity, we operate autonomously to advocate for communities and address inequities across Aotearoa New Zealand. 

Yes, FERNZ works closely with government agencies, local councils, and other organizations to provide advice, share resources, and influence policies that reduce inequities. 

These collaborations ensure community voices are heard and lead to real change.

FERNZ is not a membership-based organization. 

There are many ways you can support our mission:

• Volunteer: Participate in Community Action Groups (CAGs) in areas like Karori, Porirua, and Hutt Valley, where members address local challenges and create positive change.
• Donate: Contribute financially to support FERNZ's initiatives aimed at reducing inequities in health and social outcomes.
• Advocate: Help raise awareness about the issues FERNZ addresses by sharing their research and reports, and engaging in community discussions.

We would love to hear from you  —reach out through our 'Contact Us' page. 

FERNZ regularly publishes reports and articles that highlight health and social inequities in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

These publications offer insights and recommendations to improve outcomes for affected communities.

You can view these publications by clicking 'Our Publications' page.

Yes, FERNZ is a registered charitable organization under the Charitable Trusts Act 1957.  Our registration number is CC56720. 

FERNZ relies on grants, donations, and collaborations with like-minded organizations to fund its initiatives. 

Contributions help sustain projects such as Community Action Groups and advocacy campaigns.

You can donate to FERNZ by clicking the 'Support Us' page.

In 2024 FERNZ established 5 Community Action Groups (CAGs) in the Wellington region.

These groups meet in Wellington, Porirua, Wairarapa, Kāpiti and the Hutt Valley. 

The CAG's bring together members of the community to discuss and address local challenges, empowering them to create positive change.