Time is running out to re-register your Incorporated Society

The recent Incorporated Societies Act 2022 requires all incorporated societies to re-register and to ensure their constitution complies with the new legislation. The deadline for registration is 5 April 2026.

There are approximately 24,000 incorporated societies in New Zealand so this is a significant undertaking. Any society failing to correctly follow the process by the deadline will automatically be de-registered.

Section 26 of the Act sets out the requirements for a society’s constitution. Any amendments will need to be approved by the society’s members in accordance with the 1908 Act and the current rules of the society. 

For most societies, this means they will need to pass a resolution approving their new constitution at an annual general meeting (AGM). Depending on the timing of the AGM, most societies will likely only have one or two more scheduled AGMs prior to the deadline.

Drafting, approving and voting on a new constitution may be a time-consuming process depending on the nature of the society and number of officers and members involved.  We encourage all societies to begin this process as soon as possible.

If you are unsure about your obligations, we recommend you take legal advice tailored to your specific society without delay!

Leading law firms committed to helping clients cost-effectively will have a range of fixed-price Initial Consultations to suit most people’s needs in quickly learning what their options are.  At Rainey Collins we have an experienced team who can answer your questions and put you on the right track.