The Ministry of Disabled People deliberately chose not to give advanced warning about its funding changes

The Ministry came under fire in March for announcing changes to purchasing rules for equipment and services, out-of-the-blue.

Documents released to the Herald under the Official Information Act show then-Disability Minister Simmonds was told in February the Ministry would need to give fair notice - but it would also need to act quickly to reduce the risk of any last minute spending.

Another memo to the leadership team, in March, warned disability groups would require engagement around changes - but states advanced notice was not possible in this case.