Articles written By Better Boards

What Are Unincorporated Groups (Unincorporated Societies)?

In New Zealand Aotearoa, unincorporated societies make up the largest proportion of not-for-profit organisations, 61% in total. Almost all nonprofit groups begin as unincorporated and over time, many develop a more organised structure and set of rules or policies to better manage their operations. Small groups often make up the bulk of unincorporated groups and must decide if they want to keep things more informal. Keeping an organisation informal is often due to a lack of financial resources, little time, or a perception that rules are not needed to accomplish the objectives of the group members

What are Trusts in New Zealand?

A trust is an entity that holds money or property for the benefit of its beneficiaries or for law purposes. Estates are a person’s assets after they have died. Both trusts and estates are taxed on the income they generate. – Inland Revenue Te Tari Taake In 2021, there were between 300,000 to 500,000 trusts in Aotearoa New Zealand. The legal structure is often used by organisations in the non-profit sector, set up as a charitable trust when assets are intended for charitable purposes like education.

What is a Charitable Trust Board?

A charitable trust board is a group of trustees in charge of the governance for a non-profit with a charitable purpose. A trust is one of several legal structures available to non-profit organisations in New Zealand and offers both benefits and limitations. Charitable trusts are both a charity and a trust and are assigned a legal identity once registered, meaning that they can enter into contracts and agreements with other individuals and entities.

Marvellous Minutes

Minutes are an integral part of Director, Committee and Member meeting procedure. Whilst the practice of minute taking has evolved over the years, many people still prepare minutes the ‘same way we always have’ because they are unfamiliar with the legal scrutiny that has more recently been applied to minutes, nor are they familiar with the currently recognised best practice with respect to minutes. This webinar will explore: the legal requirements with respect to minutes;

Unleashing the Power of Effective Communication in your Boardroom

As a director you have the power to drive change, foster collaboration and create a positive impact in your organisation and community. However to do this you need to be effective in your communication. As humans we are creatures of habit. It is actually how we are ‘wired’. As leaders how do we demonstrate and role model the ability to continually learn and grow together - to lead by example?

What does it take to be a high performing non-profit Board?

Boards operate and communicate differently because at the end of the day, they are made up of human beings who have individually experienced life in different ways. One of the key aspects to high-performing non-profit Boards, is found at the intersection of IQ, EQ and SQ (Spiritual intelligence). Join Melissa and hear her thoughts after having worked with hundreds of non-profit Boards, on what the common elements she has seen to high-performing non-profit Boards .

Better Boards Conference 2023

Spark Strategic Thinking In Your Boardroom

Is your board as strategic as it should be? 🤔 If you’re looking for motivation to inspire the strategic thinking in your boardroom, this event is for you! Join us live in-person in Melbourne for Spark Strategic Thinking In Your Boardroom. This is a 2 hour, focused session, led by the inspirational George Liacos, and designed to equip you with practical strategies and actionable insights to help your board navigate complex challenges from the boardroom.

What is a Charitable Company in New Zealand?

A Charitable company is a private limited liability company registered under the Corporations Act and meeting the definition of a charitable entity. In New Zealand Aotearoa a charitable company has been registered as a charity on the Department of Internal Affairs Charities Register, and is eligible to receive a tax exemption. Charitable Company status is a good choice for group members who want to limit the liability of shareholders, retain flexible decision making, and have a trading purpose.

Who Regulates Not-for-Profit Organisations in New Zealand?

In recent years, not-for-profit organisations in New Zealand have seen several legislative changes that have had a big impact on the sector. For starters, organisational activities and community needs, along with board member responsibilities, risks, and legal obligations have all increased. While all not-for-profits are created to benefit the public and their members, not all of them need to register as a charity. The legal structure and status you choose as a non-profit will depend on whether or not the organisation has a charitable purpose and what activities you plan to conduct.