NZITF Code of Conduct

Purpose

The New Zealand Internet Task Force (NZITF) is a forum based on mutual trust for debate, networking, information sharing, and collaboration on matters relating to the cyber security of New Zealand. Trust is of utmost concern to the NZITF as it is the foundation that this community was based, and it is the glue that binds us together. All NZITF members have a responsibility towards maintaining the trustworthiness of the NZITF sharing community. This requires standards of ethical behaviour that reflect NZITF community expectations - and that is exactly the purpose of this document.

The Code of Conduct (“The Code”) provides NZITF members with guidance on the standards of behaviour expected of them in their dealings with fellow members of the NZITF community. The Code is not intended to address specific situations that may arise with respect to what is acceptable and unacceptable behaviour.

NZITF members must observe the Code as amended from time to time. This Code of Conduct expands on the Object and Membership principals stated in the NZITF Constitution.

Code of Conduct

All NZITF members have a responsibility to:

  • Respect and uphold the good name of the NZITF;

  • Always act with fairness, honesty, courtesy, integrity and openness;

  • Respect the opinions of others and treat all with equality and dignity;

  • Not use the NZITF as a marketing or sales channel;

  • Act honestly, avoiding situations which may give rise to a conflict of interest or the perception of such a conflict;

  • Where the potential for conflict cannot be avoided, NZITF members should take steps to appropriately disclose that interest;

  • Contribute to the NZITF community. If you have information that may help others and you are able to share, then please… share!

  • Help other NZITF members if you are able;

  • Avoid behaviour that could reasonably be perceived as harassment, intimidation, discrimination on any basis, bullying or threatening in any other way;

  • Protect and respect the rights and reputations of other persons within the NZITF membership;

Code of Conduct Breach

NZITF members who fail to adhere to the NZITF Code of Conduct may have their membership reviewed by the NZITF Board and may be expelled from the NZITF.

Reporting a Code of Conduct Breach

Where a NZITF member witnesses or becomes aware of conduct which, in the member’s view, gives rise to a breach of the Code, the NZITF member should contact a member of the NZITF Board and outline the breach or situation. Alternatively, the NZITF member can send an email to board@nzitf.org.nz to make all members of the NZITF Board aware of the issue. This will commence the Board review of the situation and if necessary further investigation. The situation should not be discussed with other members until a formal decision is made by the Board.

The member reporting the issue may be required to attend an NZITF Board meeting to provide further evidence. The member reporting the issue will be informed of the NZITF Board's final decision once it has been reached.