Societies warned to get ahead of changes

Triathletes take to the water during a TriSport event earlier this year.

Administrators of Taupō’s clubs and groups are being warned not to get caught out by changes to incorporated societies.

The new Incorporated Societies Act 2022 requires groups to update their constitutions and re-register before April 5, 2026.

To support groups through the changes, Taupō District Council’s community engagement and development team have organised free workshops facilitated by Community Waikato.

Tri Sport Taupō deputy chairperson Lisa Welch says she found the motivation and confidence to work on the group’s constitution after attending one of the workshops.

“I definitely procrastinated on making the changes, but then I did the online workshop and found it really easy to understand.

“I went away and re-wrote a draft constitution using the online builder in an hour and a half.

“We reviewed it, sent it to members, presented it at our AGM, and with a few tweaks it was adopted.

“It wasn’t as big a job as I expected. I’m working on re-registering another society, but I’m not worried about the process at all.”

Remaining an incorporated society means they can be tax exempt, and provides more funding opportunities.

“If we de-registered, the group would have to either become a charity or a business if it wanted to continue, which brings additional challenges and costs.

“Now we can keep on offering triathlon opportunities to people of all ages, for fun or for competition.”

Taupō District Council invites anyone involved in running an incorporated society to register for one of its free workshops now. Visit www.taupo.govt.nz/workshops to sign up, or email community@taupo.govt.nz.

In-person workshops

 Wednesday July 30, 10am - 12noon

Wednesday July 30, 5.30pm to 7.30pm

Online workshop

Thursday July 31, 6pm - 7pm