Better protections available for Incorporated Societies under new Act

More than 23,000 incorporated societies - including sports clubs, cultural groups, charities, unions and industry associations - are registered across Aotearoa. Many have already reregistered under the new Act, unlocking benefits that strengthen their governance and provides transparency for their members.

The Incorporated Societies Act 2022 replaces the outdated 1908 Act and brings in clearer, modern rules designed to support healthy, well‑run community organisations. As part of reregistration, societies must ensure their constitutions meet the requirements of the 2022 Act and apply to the Companies Office to be reregistered, which includes providing the constitution and details about officers.

The 2022 Act clarifies officers’ existing duties, such as acting in good faith, exercising care, and prioritising the society’s best interests. Every society must now have a simple, fair, and fit‑for‑purpose dispute‑resolution process.

“By reregistering, societies are modernising their governance settings and have the tools they need to operate with confidence for the future,” says Bolen Ng, National Manager at the Companies Office, part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

“By modernising governance and strengthening transparency, the new Act helps build more resilient organisations with clearer financial and administrative processes.”

Mr Ng acknowledges that many societies are volunteer‑run and may be juggling competing pressures.

“Information on our website will help societies through the reregistration process. Reregistering before the deadline will ensure your society can continue to operate as an incorporated entity and avoid last‑minute issues over the Easter weekend.”

For more information, including step‑by‑step guidance and tools to help update constitutions, visit the Companies Office website or you can call the Service Centre

Home(external link) — New Zealand Companies Office

Service Centre: 0508 762 438