Every incorporated society or charitable trust needs a governing document. This is usually called a constitution (for societies) or a trust deed (for trusts). It sets out your organisation’s purpose, rules, and how decisions are made.

A clear constitution helps prevent disputes and ensures your club complies with New Zealand law.

Why your club needs a constitution

Your constitution:

• defines your club’s purpose and values
• sets out how decisions are made
• helps answer questions like “Can we spend money on this?”
• supports transparency and good governance
• is required if your club wants to become an incorporated society

Legal requirements

Your constitution must comply with New Zealand legislation:

• Incorporated Societies Act 2022 
• Charities Act 2005. (if your club is a registered charity)

Tips for writing your constitution

• Use plain English so everyone can understand it
• Make sure it complies with the Incorporated Societies Act
• Tailor it to your club’s specific needs
• Review it every 2–3 years
• Seek legal advice for complex issues

What your constitution must include

Under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022, your constitution must cover:

Resources to help with drafting your constitution

Companies Office Constitution Builder

Citizens Advice Bureau 

Consider the Integrity Code

Sport NZ encourages clubs to adopt the Code of Integrity for Sport and Recreation. It helps create safer, fairer and more inclusive environments by:

• setting minimum standards to protect integrity
• prioritising the safety of children, young people and adults at risk
• supporting organisations to build integrity capability
• explaining the role of the Sport Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui

Find out more

Sport Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui

Sport Integrity – Building integrity together (Training module)