Independent Regulatory Review of Timothy Fisher case

In 2026, the Governing Council commissioned an Independent Regulatory Review to ensure its processes and systems meet expected standards in relation to child safety and safeguarding.

Phase 1 of the review, undertaken by Katherine Anderson KC, focused on the Teaching Council’s management of former teacher, 58-year-old Mr Timothy James Fisher.

Read the Independent Regulatory Review: Interim Report - Fisher File (a case study).

Read the Teaching Council's public statement in response to the review's findings.

Read the Minister of Education's Letter of Expectations - Response to Phase 1 findings.

Read the Teaching Council's detailed Action Plan developed to ensure accountability and prioritise child safeguarding.

Anyone who wishes to make a report or speak with Police about Mr Fisher or other previous incidents of child abuse can dial 105 from anywhere in New Zealand; or submit a report through the NZ Police 105 website.

Important clarification regarding the name Timothy Fisher

The Teaching Council wishes to make clear that the Timothy Fisher named in this report is not the same person as another registered teacher who shares this name. That teacher has no connection whatsoever to the matters described in the report. We recognise the potential impact on the teacher concerned and sincerely apologise for any distress caused to them or confusion this may have caused more widely.