Foundation for Equity and Research New Zealand
Helping make Aotearoa a better and fairer place, for all.
Our Vision
A society where everyone has equitable rights that enable them to live a full and healthy and happy life.
Our Mission
To work in partnership with communities to identify and address inequities.
The difference between equity and equality is that equality is when everyone gets the same thing, and equity is when everyone gets the things they deserve.
DeRay Mckesson (Activist)
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at info@fernz.org.nz if you cannot find an answer to your question.
FERNZ works in partnership with communities to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive and enjoy their full rights as citizens.
To achieve these goals, FERNZ engages in various initiatives, including:
- Establishing Community Action Groups (CAGs) in areas like Karori, Porirua, and Hutt Valley, where members address local challenges and create positive change.
- Collaborating with government agencies to provide expert advice on policies and practices that reduce inequities.
- Publishing research and reports that highlight inequities and recommend solutions.
FERNZ works to reduce inequities in communities, with a focus on Māori, Pacific, Disabled, Women, and Rainbow communities, working toward a fairer, more inclusive New Zealand.
By partnering with these communities, FERNZ aims to create lasting, positive change
FERNZ operates across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Our grassroots initiatives are currently focused in the greater Wellington and Waikato regions.
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 has trusted working relationships with government agencies, local councils, NGO's and other organisations to provide advice, share resources, and influence policies that reduce inequities.
These collaborations ensure community voices are heard and lead to real change.
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 on the 'support us' page.
Yes, FERNZ is a registered charitable organization under the Charitable Trusts Act 1957, our registration number is CC56720.
FERNZ is not a membership-based organization.
However, there are many ways to 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 our research and reports, and engaging in community discussions.
Contact us through our website to learn more about these opportunities.
FERNZ 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 see our publications by clicking on the 'Our Publications' page
Our disability focused Community Action Groups (CAGs) are currently operating in the greater Wellington region.
Over the past year FERNZ has established CAGs in Porirua, Wellington, the Hutt Valley, Wairarapa and Kāpiti. These groups bring together members of the disability community to discuss and address local challenges, empowering them to create positive change.
We are currently establishing Community Action Groups in the Waikato/ Hauraki regions.
You can contact FERNZ through the contact form on our website or by emailing info@fernz.org.nz
We would love to answer your questions and discuss how you can join our mission.