The mass resignation of the Psychotherapists Board came days after a letter from the associate health minister expressing concern over accusations from a whistleblower, and considering removing them on the grounds of neglect of duty.

But the board members say no formal investigation ever took place, and they resigned after a breakdown in trust and confidence between themselves and the ministry.

In letters dated 18 May, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey wrote to each member of the board saying he had received advice from Ministry of Health officials detailing concerns about the board collectively, and certain members individually.

He said he also had concerns about the way the board responded when the ministry tried to investigate.

The details of the whistleblower's exact accusations have been redacted from the letter, but in it, Doocey noted the board had denied what they referred to as "malicious" allegations.

He wrote that in his view, the board was aware of the harm being caused, "yet - with only minor exceptions - no board members took action to challenge any of these issues" - and at times it meant the board was unable to carry out some its statutory functions.

Previous news reports had linked the resignations to a government policy change, which some in the industry feared would give the government a new level of control over the board's decisions.

But the ministry said the resignations were unconnected to the new bill, and a spokesperson told RNZ the ministry...

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