Assuming that Gareth's main beef is the lack of connection between the Phoenix and NZF, it's an interesting question to what extent football in NZ would be better served by closer alignment between the two organisations - I'm genuinely quite torn.
From my discussion with him, that's an incorrect assumption. He just thinks the whole place is f*cked at the minute and that it needs a tune up. It's that simple.
Ok but I'm not sure how he is placed better than anyone else involved in football to diagnose the problems then (of which there are many, and of which there are many people who also share that view). I don't really see why he has become the mouthpiece for reforming NZF - other than if he's prepared to write a big cheque. Just being able to call up a reporter and get himself in the paper what role does he really have in the game?
He probably does have some good ideas, but so do a lot of people - you and me included - but I don't just go out demanding a meeting with NZF and telling them how they should reform themselves. Who does Gareth actually represent here? Owners of professional clubs in NZ? Phoenix fans? Loudmouths everywhere?
Since when did having a mandate equate to the ability to be heard? Who does Kim Dotcom represent? Who does Lorde represent?
Gareth has an audience, and he's using it to call for reform of NZF. He's also using it to call for reform of cats.
So that's one question.
As for what role he has in the game, he's probably one of the three biggest personal financial contributors to football in New Zealand. Sure that's his choice, but it certainly gives him skin in the game.
You and I might have some good ideas (not sure about me) but we don't have direct dealings with NZF on a day to day basis. The Phoenix do, so requiring a meeting with them isn't too outrageous either.
Overall what I'm driving at is this: if anyone is going to call for reform of the game's national governance, Gareth is probably one of the best placed to be the guy calling.
I actually respect him for not bandying about his vision or his solutions. I think he knows he doesn't know enough to give solutions. All he's saying is "let's do better." I agree with him.