Nine Experts Appointed to New Integrity Sport and Recreation Commission Board

"The Integrity Sport and Recreation Commission is a newly established independent Crown entity, created under the Integrity Sport and Recreation Act last year, and will officially commence operations on 1 July this year," Bishop stated.

Sport and Recreation Minister Chris Bishop has announced the appointment of nine highly respected experts to the inaugural board of the new Integrity Sport and Recreation Commission.

"The Integrity Sport and Recreation Commission is a newly established independent Crown entity, created under the Integrity Sport and Recreation Act last year, and will officially commence operations on 1 July this year," Bishop stated.

"The Commission's purpose is to enhance integrity in sport and recreation, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of participants and preserving the fairness of competition. Additionally, the Commission will be responsible for implementing the World Anti-Doping Code in New Zealand, incorporating the existing agency, Drug Free Sport New Zealand."

The inaugural board members are:

Don Mackinnon (Chair)

Tim Castle

Traci Houpapa

Adine Wilson

Lyndon Bray

Bobbi-Jo Clark-Heu

Rebecca McDonald

Keven Mealamu

Lesley Nicol

"I am confident that the board's collective expertise, knowledge, and mana will enable the Commission to provide optimal support and protection for all New Zealanders participating in sport and recreation, from preschool swimming lessons to international competitions," Bishop said.

"Kiwis hold a strong belief that sporting competition should be fair and clean. New Zealand is internationally respected for its principled and ethical stance against performance-enhancing drugs, and I am certain that the new Commission will uphold and continue this legacy."