The Sport Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui has today been made aware that New Zealand Police have decided to reopen an investigation relating to historic sexual assault allegations. As part of that process, they are also investigating the officer responsible for the original investigation, who is former police officer and current Sport Integrity Disciplinary Panel Te Kahu Aratika (the Panel) member Darren Folau. This matter had not previously been disclosed to the Commission.

Given the nature of the investigation, Mr Folau has agreed to stand down from the Panel. His ongoing role on the Panel will be revisited once this investigation has been completed. 

We will make no further comment while the investigation is ongoing.

Other notes

The Sport Integrity Disciplinary Panel Te Kahu Aratika (the Panel) was established in October 2025 to hear and determine matters under the Code of Integrity for Sport and Recreation. Appointments to the Panel are made by the Commission's Board.

The Panel is administered by the Sport Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui but is operationally independent.

The Panel has not yet heard any cases.