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Contents
1. PURPOSE ..................................................................................................................................... 3
2. THE CENTRE’S OVERALL STRATEGIC PLAN, ANNUAL PLAN AND RESEARCH
PRIORITIES, AND PROGRESS AGAINST THESE DURING THE GRANT PERIOD. ................ .. . .. 4
2.1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... ... ... 4
2.2 SUMMARY OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN, ANNUAL PLAN & RESEARCH PRIORITIES ...... 4
2.3 PROGRESS TO DATE ........................................................................................ .. ............... 6
3. THE CENTRES YTD SPEND OF THIS GRANT AGAINST ITS ANNUAL BUDGET ..................... 7
3.1 OVERVIEW .............................................................................................. .............................. 7
3.2 OPERATING COST OF THE TRUST ................................................ . . ............................... 8
3.3 RESEARCH CENTRES 2023 OPERATIONS BUDGET ............. .. ...................................... 9
3.4 RESEARCH CENTRES 2023 RESEARCH BUDGET ........... . ... ........................................ 10
4. The TRUST’S ASSESSMENT OF THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE CENTRE HAS OR IS LIKELY
TO MEET ITS PURPOSES, AS SET OUT IN THE TRUST DEED. . .................................................. 11
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1. PURPOSE
This document provides the Trust’s report to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
(DPMC) on delivery of the Trust’s activities / initiatives set out in the conditional grant established on
16 March 2023 to provide a total of $1,423,842 (ex GST) funding to the Trust for the 2022/23 financial
year. This conditional grant comprised:
Costs related to the setting up and operating costs of the Trust
$98,842 (including a contingency
amount of $20,000)
Research costs of the Centre
$825,000
Operating costs of the Centre
$500,000
The conditional grant requires that the Trust complete delivery of the Activity/Initiative and provide a
final report to DPMC within 3 months of the completion of the Grant Period, to report on:
• The Centre’s overall Strategic Plan, Annual Plan and Research Priorities, and progress against
these during the grant period.
• The Centre’s year-to-date spend of this Grant against its annual budget.
• The Trust’s assessment of the extent to which the Centre has or is likely to meet its purposes, as
set out in the Trust Deed.
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2. THE CENTRE’S OVERALL STRATEGIC PLAN, ANNUAL PLAN AND
RESEARCH PRIORITIES, AND PROGRESS AGAINST THESE DURING
THE GRANT PERIOD.
2.1 INTRODUCTION The Research Center has presented the Trust with a comprehensive 2023 annual plan
encompassing their strategic vision, research priorities, and budget. The Trust has wholeheartedly
endorsed this plan and is committed to collaborating with the Research Center to pursue a mutual
mission and unified objective. The contents of the report have been summarised below.
2.2 SUMMARY OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN, ANNUAL PLAN & RESEARCH PRIORITIES
"He Whenua Taurikura" is an independent National Centre of Research Excellence hosted by Victoria
University of Wellington, established in response to a recommendation 14 from the Royal
Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch Mosque terrorist attack. Its vision is to achieve a peaceful
land (Aotearoa New Zealand) by promoting research on preventing and countering violent extremism
while focusing on understanding diversity and fostering social cohesion.
2.2.1 VISION AND MISSION:
Vision: The vision is a peaceful land.
Mission: To advance research into countering and preventing terrorism and violent extremism in
Aotearoa New Zealand, emphasizing diversity, social cohesion, and inclusion.
2.2.2 OBJECTIVES:
1. Develop and Enhance Expertise: Cultivate expertise in preventing and countering violent
extremism in the New Zealand context, grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi)
and Te Ao Māori approaches.
2. Generate Research: Generate evidence-based research on preventing and countering violent
extremism to inform New Zealand policy.
3. Build Partnerships: Foster collaborations between researchers, civil society, and government
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to collectively address violent extremism.
4. Public Engagement: Engage with the public, media, and communities to promote dialogue and
understanding on countering extremism.
2.2.3 STRATEGIC PLAN
• The Centre is developing a three-year Strategic Plan (2023-2025) to establish itself as a national
leader in violent extremism research.
• Research focus inc
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• Key activities in 2023 include scholarships, research associates, and a flagship research program.
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2.2.4 KEY ACTIVITIES AND INITIATIVES
• Develop and Enhance Expertise: Focuses on building a strong expertise base by supporting new
and early career researchers, enhancing domestic research networks, identifying key affiliates,
and fostering partnerships with international entities.
• Generate Research: Aims to drive and support high-quality, New Zealand-specific research that
aligns with Te Tiriti o Waitangi, fostering partnerships with international organizations and
generating additional research investment.
• Public Engagement: Seeks to support informed public dialogue and raise awareness about
countering extremism, publishing content, engaging with trusted media, and participating in
various forms of public discourse.
2.2.5 RISKS AND MITIGATION:
2.2.5.1 Staffing Risk:
Potential staff turnover and uncertainties related to potential staffing cuts.
Mitigation: Succession planning, recruitment for specific projects, robust documentation, external
funding buffer, and host institution support.
2.2.5.2 Budgetary Risk:
Tight operational budget with limited contingency funds.
Mitigation: Augmenting the 2023 budget with residual funds and considering overhead costs in future
appointments.
2.2.5.3 Health and Safety Risk:
Concerns about the personal safety of staff and affiliates due to the nature of their work.
Mitigation: Maintaining a low profile, enhanced security measures, succession planning, online safety
measures, and anonymity for scholarship recipients.
2.2.5.4 Reputation Risk:
Potential negative media or online attention as the Center's profile grows.
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Mitigation: Affirming the Center's identity, seeking guidance from the Board of Governors, and
focusing on positive messaging.
2.2.5.5 Project Delivery Risk:
Risks elated to staff loss and potential non-completion of student thesis projects.
M tigation: Diversifying research funding, allocating funding to scholarships, and providing support for
scholarship students.
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2.2.6 OPPORTUNITIES:
• Opportunities include building strategic partnerships, collaborating internationally, securing co-
funding, hosting events, and diversifying income streams for sustainability.
In summary, He Whenua Taurikura (The Research Centre) aims to advance research and
understanding to prevent and counter violent extremism in New Zealand while promoting diversity,
inclusion, and social cohesion. The Centre is taking proactive measures to address operational risks
and seize opportunities for growth and impact.
2.3 PROGRESS TO DATE
Below, you'l find a summary of the Research Centre's progress in each category, as outlined by its
key activities and initiatives.
Developing Expertise:
• Funding Postgraduate Scholarships: Awarding scholarships to nurture a network of talented
researchers with ties to communities and marginalized groups
• He Manu Taki Scholars Group: A forum supporting early career researchers in areas related to
counterterrorism, hate, disinformation, and social connectedness.
• Summer Scholarships/Internships: Al ocating funds for students to work on research projects
during the summer.
• Nostalgia Project: Led by Co-Director Paul Spoonley, focusing on 'toxic nostalgia' and mentoring
early career researchers.
Generating Research:
• Seeding Project: Led by Paul Spoonley, aiming to guide research networking and explore
extremism research in New Zealand.
• Scholarship Al ocations: Funding four doctoral and two master's research projects in 2023,
comprising the largest research funding allocation.
Building Partnerships:
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• Collaborating with academic, government, and community groups nationally and internationally.
• Hosting annual hui (meetings) with government agencies, researchers, and civil society to discuss
countering terrorism and violent extremism.
Public Engagement:
• Media Interviews: Co-Directors providing credible, evidence-based insights through interviews in
various media.
• Public Presentations: Regular speaking engagements by Co-Directors to various groups.
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• Research-Related Hui (Symposium): Organizing events like 'Imagining Peace' Symposium and
co-hosted hui.
• Seminar Series: Hosting a seminar series with international speakers on counterterrorism and
extremism.
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• Podcast Series: Creating the 'Defiant Hope' podcast series highlighting community responses to
extremism.
• Regular Hui: Maintaining ongoing discussions and relationships with various community
stakeholders.
• HWT Newsletter: Circulating an e-newsletter with updates on activities and events.
• HWT Website: Developing a website as a platform for public information on the Centre's purpose
and resources.
3. THE CENTRE’S YTD SPEND OF THIS GRANT AGAINST ITS ANNUAL
BUDGET
3.1 OVERVIEW
The Research Centre has provided a draft operating and research budget for the period 1st January
2023 to 31st December 2023. The 2023 operations budget includes $240,633 surplus that has been
carried forward from the DPMC establishment grant.
It is important to note that the Trust has had challenges registering for GST as IRD have declined our
application, noting there is no evident taxable activity. The invoice we have received from DPMC
includes GST although the funds we have received from DPMC exclude GST. As a result, we do not
have sufficient funds to grant the Research Centre funds for their operating and research activities.
The funding for research ($825,000) and the operating costs ($500,000) of the Centre have not yet
been transferred to Victoria University of Wellington (VUW). They remain in the Trust’s bank account
earning interest, pending resolution of the GST issue.
DPMC is actively helping the Trust to resolve these issues. As soon as we get further clarity on the
matter, we wil endeavor to transfer the funds to the Research Centre to ensure we can progress with
our annual and strategic plan.
The trust received a total of $113,668.30 , inclusive of GST, which also incorporated a contingency
allocation of $23,000. A substantial portion of these funds was allocated towards covering expenses
such as chair, trustee, and secretariat fees. Additionally, legal expenses were notably high during the
initial startup phase due to our engagement with Buddle Findlay for crucial startup document support.
It's worth noting that the trust did not utilise the $23,000 contingency allowance provided by DPMC.
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3.2 OPERATING COST OF THE TRUST
Income Statement
He Whenua Taurikura - National Centre of Research Excellence
1st September 2022 - 31st June 2023
YTD
Revenue
Revenue from Grant
$ 90,667.92
Interest Income
$ 3,409.87
Net revenue
$ 94,077.79
Expenses
Chair Fees
$ 17,658
Trustees Fees
$ 35,552
Secretariat
$ 21,793
IRD
$ 2,847
Travel
$ 4,713
Parking
$ 209
Taxi
$ 118
Catering
Legal and Professional Fees
$ 7,010
Bank charges
$ 20
Microsoft Teams
$ 110
Net Expenses
$ 90,030.88
Net Income (Loss)
$ 4,046.91
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3.3 RESEARCH CENTRES 2023 OPERATIONS BUDGET
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3.4 RESEARCH CENTRES 2023 RESEARCH BUDGET
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4. THE TRUST’S ASSESSMENT OF THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE
CENTRE HAS OR IS LIKELY TO MEET ITS PURPOSES, AS SET OUT IN
THE TRUST DEED.
The Trust has conducted a comprehensive assessment of the Center's progress towards meeting its
defined purposes, as outlined in the trust deed. The Trust acknowledges that the Center has made
commendable progress, exemplifying dedication, and hard work in fulfil ing its mission.
Some notable acknowledgements include the Center's successful Scholarship Day initiative which
played a pivotal role in promoting education and engagement with the community. The Center's
flagship research on nostalgia has garnered recognition and aligns with its core mission and
objectives. Finally, the provision of quarterly Director reports and consistent media updates has been
beneficial in maintaining transparency and communication.
The Trust recognise that the establishment phase, especially for a centre dealing with sensitive topics
such as countering extremism and violent terrorism, is often more complex than initially anticipated.
The Trust acknowledges the dedication and hard work in the first year of operation in laying the
foundation for capacity and capability building. Enhanced community engagement is seen as a key
priority. The Center's directors and secretariat have exhibited unwavering dedication in building the
organisation's profile and reputation. The Center is respected for its inclusive approach and the
integrity with which it conducts its activities. It is developing a reputation as a centre of research
excellence. The Trust recognises the extensive time, effort, and passion invested in ensuring the
Center's future success.
The impending departure of Prof Paul Spoonley, who has held a prominent role, is acknowledged as
a significant loss. The Trust emphasises the importance of a seamless transition to a new leader,
understanding its potential impact on the organisation's momentum and reputation. The Trust has
taken early steps to plan for Paul's succession, acknowledging the inherent challenges, particularly
for a center in its early establishment phase.
Operating on a tight budget has been challenging, especially during the startup phase. The financial
constraints have had an impact on community investment.
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In summary, the Trust recognises the Center's achievements and dedication in fulfil ing its mission.
While challenges such as financial constraints and transition planning exist, the Trust remains
committed to supporting the Center's mission and addressing these challenges for its continued
growth and impact. Clarifying the role of the Board and ensuring strong leadership transitions are
among the key areas that require attention moving forward.
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Per the Trust Deed, the HWT Trust is established to fund, facilitate, and promote research into the
prevention and countering of violent extremism in New Zealand by:
a) Establishing and administering one or more contestable research funds to support New Zealand-
specific research on the causes of, and measures to prevent, terrorism and violent extremism.
He Whenua Taurikura works with the research centre to establish and administers contestable
research funds to support New Zealand-specific research on the causes of, and measures to prevent
terrorism and violent extremism through the following initiatives:
Seeding Project - 'The Way We Never Were': Under the leadership of Co-Director Paul Spoonley, He
Whenua Taurikura initiates a seeding project in 2023 focused on 'toxic nostalgia.' This project serves
as the starting point for research networking and exploration of extremism research in New Zealand.
As part of this project, they fund a part-time Research Fellow (0.2 FTE) to assist in developing
research approaches, themes, and potential collaborations. The project's findings inform areas of
further research, which wil be developed in 2024 as part of the Center's flagship research program.
Launch of Flagship Research Program: He Whenua Taurikura proposes the launch of a flagship
research program titled 'Radicalization, Conspiracism, and Disengagement in Aotearoa.' This
program includes three funded research fellows who wil conduct their own projects while working
alongside a multidisciplinary network of research associates. The proposed projects focus on various
aspects of extremism research:
• Project 1: Examines youth, conspiracism, and radicalization, with a focus on
understanding the experiences of young individuals engaged with or exposed to hate groups
and conspiracism. The project also explores initiatives supporting youth to disengage from
these extremist influences.
• Project 2: Named 'Mau te Rongo,' this project, conducted from a Māori research
perspective, aims to understand the contexts of whānau Māori who participated in the 2022
occupation at parliament grounds or are drawn to beliefs promoting misogyny, homophobia,
transphobia, or racism.
• Project 3: Building on the earlier seeding funding in 2023, this project continues its work
into 2024, bringing together scholars interested in extremism. The project's focus is on
researching the contemporary politicization of nostalgia and ideas of racial purity.
Scholarship Al ocations: In 2023, He Whenua Taurikura allocates significant research funding, with
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$480,000 (58% of the total available) directed toward scholarships. These scholarships are intended
to support new research projects and early career researchers.
Kororāreka Writing Retreat: The centre hosts a writing and planning event for research fellows, Co-
Directors and the secretariat. This event results in the creation of research project plans for 2024 and
a program of research-related events.
Through these initiatives, He Whenua Taurikura is actively establishing and administering research
funds to support New Zealand-specific research on the causes of and measures to prevent terrorism
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and violent extremism.
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b) Providing support (including but not limited to funding) to civil society and community organisations
for projects relating to researching or improving public understanding in New Zealand of preventing
and countering violent extremism.
He Whenua Taurikura provides support to civil society and community organisations for projects
related to researching and improving public understanding in New Zealand of preventing and
countering violent extremism through its postgraduate scholarships and the activities of its Centre Co-
Directors.
He Whenua Taurikura Postgraduate Scholarships: These scholarships offer financial support to
emerging researchers, including those with community affiliations. By funding researchers in the field
of PCVE and social cohesion, He Whenua Taurikura directly contributes to research and the
generation of knowledge in this area. The research conducted by the scholarship recipients can lead
to a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding violent extremism, thus improving public
awareness, and understanding.
The Centre’s Co-Director Activities: The Centre’s Co-Directors play a significant role in enhancing
public understanding of PCVE. Their engagement in media interviews, interactions with community
groups, discussions with government agencies, and ongoing dialogues with community stakeholders
all serve to disseminate information, expertise, and insights related to PCVE. This proactive
engagement and sharing of knowledge not only inform the public but also foster collaboration and
cooperation between various stakeholders in the community, ultimately contributing to a more
comprehensive and informed approach to preventing and countering violent extremism.
c) Establishing scholarships to incentivise continued research into the prevention and countering of
violent extremism in New Zealand.
He Whenua Taurikura works with the research centre to establish scholarships and other initiatives to
incentivise continued research into the prevention and countering of violent extremism in New
Zealand through the fol owing means:
1. Postgraduate Scholarships: The Centre offers Postgraduate Scholarships through the He
Whenua Taurikura scholarship program. These scholarships are specifically designed to
support and incentivise continued research into the prevention and countering of violent
extremism. They fund both Ph.D. and Master's students with strong community ties. In 2023,
three Ph.D. and two Master's scholars were funded, and the scholarship round for 2024 is set
to begin in September 2023. This demonstrates the commitment to nurturing emerging
scholars and encouraging them to engage in research related to extremism.
2. He Whenua Taurikura Research Associates: In addition to scholarships, the organisation is in
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the process of establishing a network of Research Associates. These Research Associates,
referred to as He Kaiwhakatere (The Navigators), wil be actively involved in expanding the
community of researchers working on preventing violent extremism in New Zealand. As an
incentive, members of this network wil be eligible for funding and wil have the opportunity to
participate in research programs, workshops, and events. This fosters a sense of collaboration
and support for researchers engaged in this critical field.
3. Summer Scholarships: He Whenua Taurikura introduces a Summer Scholarship program in
2023. This initiative incentivises research into the prevention and countering of violent
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extremism by providing opportunities for scholars to work on real-world research projects over
the summer. The program offers a practical and hands-on approach to research, as scholars
are supervised by established university researchers embedded within government agencies.
This not only supports research efforts but also allows scholars to contribute directly to
addressing extremism.
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4. He Manu Taki Scholars Group: While not explicitly focused on scholarships, the He Manu Taki
Scholars Group, a forum for early career researchers, is instrumental in incentivising research
into countering extremism. This group fosters a community of researchers working on
counterterrorism, hate, disinformation, and social connectedness. Through monthly online
meetings and a 2-day residential program, it provides a platform for knowledge exchange and
networking, further motivating researchers to engage in this vital area of study.
These initiatives collectively demonstrate He Whenua Taurikura's dedication to incentivising and
promoting ongoing research efforts in the prevention and countering of violent extremism in New
Zealand. They provide opportunities, support, and resources to scholars and researchers to explore
this critical issue.
d) Establishing a public facing website to educate and facilitate collaboration in the field of the
prevention and countering of violent extremism in New Zealand;
He Whenua Taurikura has established a public-facing website to educate and facilitate collaboration
in the field of preventing and countering violent extremism in New Zealand. This website, developed
in 2023, serves as a vital platform for disseminating information about the Center's mission, activities,
and available resources. The website's content includes details on scholarships and project funding,
access to podcasts and seminar recordings, updates on news and upcoming events, and more.
The website has already been created and is live, providing a valuable resource for those interested
in the Center's work. You can access it at the following URL: https://hwt.ac.nz/funding-information/.
e) Creating a policy briefs series based on New Zealand research on preventing and countering
violent extremism.
He Whenua Taurikura is working towards creating policy brief series based on New Zealand research
on preventing and countering violent extremism. Two of the initiatives commenced are explained
below.
Engaging a Research Assistant for Literature Review: The Centre is involved in producing policy
briefs by hiring a Research Assistant to conduct a literature review. This literature review is likely in
response to specific questions posed by government agencies. By synthesising existing research and
knowledge on the subject of preventing and countering violent extremism, the Centre can provide
valuable insights and info mation that inform and shape policy development in this field.
Engaging Researchers to Respond to Policy Analysts: The Centre is currently running a project that
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involves engaging researchers to respond to challenges and issues raised by policy analysts from
agencies such as CTAG (Counter-Terrorism and Analysis Group) and DPMC (Department of the
Prime Minister and Cabinet). This project demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing real-
world problems and concerns related to preventing and countering violent extremism. Researchers
working on this project likely produce policy briefs that are directly informed by New Zealand-specific
research, which can be used to guide and influence government policies in this area.
f) Creating channels for proactive information sharing in the field of the prevention and countering of
violent extremism in New Zealand.
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He Whenua Taurikura has established various channels for proactive information sharing in the field
of preventing and countering violent extremism in New Zealand:
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1. Media Interviews: The Co-Directors regularly engage in media interviews, providing credible,
evidence-based insights through online, radio, television, and print media. These interviews and
comments serve as a key avenue for promoting the Center's public profile and reputation while
contributing to discussions on issues relevant to the Center's mission.
2. Public Presentations and Engagements: Co-Directors actively participate in public speaking
engagements, reaching out to schools, businesses, and community groups. These presentations
provide opportunities to share knowledge and insights related to the Center's mission and objectives.
3. Building and Maintaining Relationships: The Center is dedicated to nurturing and consolidating
relationships of trust with various community stakeholders, including Māori, Pacific, Muslim, Jewish,
LBQTI+, refugee, and ethnic communities, as well as academic stakeholders. These relationships are
of paramount importance and guide the activities and priorities of He Whenua Taurikura The
organization emphasizes the inclusion of communities targeted by extremists, seeking their advice
and guidance in its work.
4. HWT Newsletter: He Whenua Taurikura circulates an e-newsletter to its research and community
networks. This newsletter provides updates on the Center's activities and information about upcoming
events, ensuring that stakeholders remain informed about the latest developments in the field.
5. HWT Website: The Center has developed a website, serving as an online platform for publicly
available information. This website includes details on scholarship and project funding, links to
podcasts and seminar recordings, as well as updates on news and upcoming events. It facilitates the
sharing of information and resources related to the prevention and countering of violent extremism.
These diverse channels ensure that He Whenua Taurikura actively shares information and engages
with various stakeholders to advance its mission and objectives in preventing and countering violent
extremism in New Zealand.
g) Providing and facilitating advice to government and other groups and organisations on preventing
and countering violent extremism in New Zealand, including the annual He Whenua Taurikura hui;
He Whenua Taurikura provides and facilitates advice to government and other groups and
organisations on preventing and countering violent extremism in New Zealand through several
means, including:
Annual He Whenua Taurikura Hui: The annual He Whenua Taurikura hui serves as a platform for
providing advice and insights on preventing and countering violent extremism. Both the Centre and
the Board of Trustees actively participate in this event. During the hui, experts and stakeholders
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gather to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss strategies to address violent
extremism. This annual event acts as a significant forum for advising and collaborating with
government agencies and various organizations in the field.
Centre Co-Directors' Involvement: The Centre Co-Directors play a pivotal role in providing advice and
insights. They contribute through the following activities:
• Media Interviews: By engaging in media interviews, the Co-Directors can offer expert advice
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and insights to a broader audience, including government and community groups. This
outreach is a way to disseminate information and recommendations related to preventing and
countering violent extremism.
• Speaking to Community Groups and Representatives: By speaking to community groups and
representatives, the Co-Directors can offer guidance and expertise to local communities. This
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direct interaction helps in advising and informing these groups on the best practices for
addressing violent extremism.
• Engaging with Government Agencies: The Co-Directors have ongoing discussions with
government agencies, which involves providing advice and insights on strategies, policies, and
initiatives related to preventing and countering violent extremism. This engagement helps in
shaping government responses in this critical area.
h) Holding and supporting events and workshops relating to the prevention and countering of violent
extremism in New Zealand, including the He Whenua Taurikura Hui;
He Whenua Taurikura hosts an annual national hui, known as the He Whenua Taurikura Hui. This
event is a significant gathering that convenes individuals from diverse sectors of society to build
relationships and enhance understanding of countering violent extremism and terrorism. The hui will
be held on the 5&6th of December at the Tākina Convention Centre, Wellington. The hui serves as a
platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, aligning with the recommendations of the Royal
Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch Mosque attacks. The focus of the 2023 hui is on
preventing radicalization to violence and further harm. At endees are invited to register, with
participation limited to ensure meaningful engagement. For those unable to attend in person, live
streaming of speeches, panel events, and resources is provided on the Department of the Prime
Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) website.
i) Creating and administering secondment opportunities for practitioners and researchers to spend
time in government or in research/civil society organisations and institutes to enable experiential
learning into the prevention and countering of violent extremism in New Zealand.
There is no information on this to report at this stage. We wil continue to focus on this going forward.
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IN-CONFIDENCE
28 March 2024
Board of He Whenua Taurikura Trust
Vanisa Dhiru
Andy George
Ikhlaq Kashkari
Tracey McIntosh
Dave Moskovitz
Tēnā koutou
It was good to meet with you all at the Governance Board meeting on 28 February 2024 and to
hear your collective views on the Centre’s progress and how DPMC can best support you.
Firstly, thank you for previously providing further information to support the Trust’s report on the
progress of the He Whenua Taurikura National Centre of Research Excellence for the year ended
30 June 2023, in accordance with reporting requirements as part of the conditional grant.
I would like to acknowledge the significant progress that the Board has made in the past year,
establishing the Centre and working through the respective roles and responsibilities of both the
Centre and the Trust. This establishment phase is inevitably one of the hardest to achieve, but
the foundations are now in place to set the Centre up well for success.
I am pleased with the progress the Centre has made to develop a network of researchers from
universities across the country, broadening the community of those involved in preventing and
countering violent extremism in New Zealand. The increased diversity of perspectives across
different academic disciplines is welcomed.
I hope that in broadening the network, all of the existing and established academics with a range
of expertise in the field of countering terrorism and violent extremism continue to be included in
Centre activities. From a range of conversations that DPMC has had with researchers, there are
a small number who seem to not yet view the Centre as a mechanism to support their work, as
envisaged by the Royal Commission of Inquiry. I encourage the Trust to work with the Centre and
Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) to ensure that this is the case.
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The contestable funding that the Centre will be making available to the wider research community
in 2024 will hopefully enable research to be supported in a variety of institutions across the
country, directly delivering the first of the Trust’s purposes. I encourage the Trust to continue to
prioritise this activity, ensuring that the research funding provided by DPMC be made available to
suppo t projects originating both inside and outside of the Centre.
In addition, I would like to seek your support to ensure that the Centre’s work is focused entirely
on research directly related to countering terrorism and violent extremism. This is the sole purpose
of the Trust and for which the funding provided by DPMC can be used. The threat to New
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Zealanders – from individuals with a range of identity, faith and political motivations, as well as
mixed, unstable and unclear ideologies – remains a pressing one, and the Centre has a critical
role to play in supporting our collective work to prevent terrorist attacks and further loss of life.
There is one area that I would like to draw particular attention to in relation to the Centre’s priorities
– per s4.1(g) of the Deed of Trust:
Defence House, Bowen Street, Wellington, New Zealand 6011
64 4 830 5000 dpmc.govt.nz
IN-CONFIDENCE
IN-CONFIDENCE
4.1 Purpose of trust: The Trust is established to fund, facilitate and promote research
into the prevention and countering of violent extremism in New Zealand by:
…
g) providing and facilitating advice to government and other groups and
organisations on preventing and countering violent extremism in New Zealand;
The Centre has an important role in building strong partnerships with those government agencies
working on behalf of New Zealanders to prevent and counter violent extremism, by providing a
strong evidence base to help ensure that work addressing the evolving terrorism threat that we
collectively face is effective. As mentioned in your report though, engagement with government
agencies has not yet been operationalised, and this is an area that I recommend that the Trust
focus on supporting the Centre to deliver in 2024.
To enable these strong partnerships, I request the support of the Trust to ensure that not less
than a quarter (25%) of the research funding being provided by DPMC in 2024 is used by the
Centre to directly respond to the research needs of agencies.
This level of focus should ensure that the research that the Centre is supporting is at the heart of
national work on terrorism and violent extremism. I encourage the Centre to partner closely with
agencies to coordinate the delivery of both long-term and rapid evidence research, conducted by
researchers across the country who have expertise on these important issues. Whilst literature
reviews might form a part of this, I would expect that most of this funding be made available more
broadly to researchers through fully open, transparent, and contestable processes.
I therefore propose to include the following condition within the new conditional grant that will
provide the Trust with DPMC’s funding for the Centre for 2024:
“
One quarter (25%) of the research funding provided be used to directly enable research
from across the country that responds to government agency priorities for research into
preventing and countering violent extremism, as indicated by DPMC and the Counter
Terrorism Coordination Committee (CTCC) ”
A copy of the proposed conditional grant is attached for your consideration and signing. This
reflects the available DPMC funding levels for the Centre for the current year discussed at the
Board meeting, of $500,000 operating funding and $825,000 research funding. As discussed,
DPMC is no longer able to fund the Trust operating costs of up to $150, 000 going forward so this
is the final payment for the Trust.
If you have any comments or questions on this letter, DPMC would be happy to discuss these.
Please contact 9(2)(a)
DPMC) in the first instance.
under the Official Information Act 1982
Thank you once again for the significant progress that the Trust Board and the Centre have made
in the past year. I look forward to continuing our collective work to support its ongoing
development throughout 2024. This letter can be shared with VUW and the Centre as required.
Ngā mihi nui
Released
Bridget White
Executive Director
National Security Group
DPMC: 4835500
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IN-CONFIDENCE
