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Local clubs and community groups operating as incorporated societies are being urged to check their legal status, following the introduction of a new law that modernises how societies must operate.
The Incorporated Societies Act 2022 came into force on October 5, 2023, replacing the outdated 1908 legislation and introducing new rules aimed at improving governance, transparency and accountability within incorporated societies.
However, until April 5, 2026, there are two Acts in force and the one that applies to your society depends on which Act it’s registered under.
If your society registered before October 2023, it is not covered by the new law and it must reregister under the 2022 Act by April 5, 2026 if it wishes to continue operating as an incorporated society. Groups that fail to reregister by the deadline will be removed from the register and will cease to exist as legal entities.
Without incorporated status, a society loses its legal protections, including the right to own property, sign contracts, and protect its name. Members could also be held personally liable for debts or legal obligations, such as lease agreements.
To check which Act your society is currently registered under, visit the Incorporated Societies Register online and search for your organisation. If your society was first registered on or after October 5, 2023, or has already completed the reregistration process, it is already covered by the new law.
The Companies Office website includes step-by-step guidance on how to reregister and what changes may be required to your society’s rules and governance structure. A ‘Law Changes Hub’ has also been set up to support societies through the transition.
More information is available at: https://is-register.companiesoffice.govt.nz/help-centre/getting-started/new-legislation-for-incorporated-societies/
