Running your charity

Geared for success
Regardless of size, income, area of activity or background, there are some key characteristics that effective registered charities demonstrate:Clear purpose and direction Effective registered charities are clear about the characteristics and needs of their beneficiaries, their charitable purpose(s) and their vision. They use this knowledge to guide decision making and activity.  All such information should be included in a charity’s formal rules document. 

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CommunityNet Aotearoa
CommunityNet Aotearoa is an online hub where you can find and share resources designed to strengthen community organisations. It puts quality resources in one place making it easy to find the resources you need.

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NZ Navigator
An online self-assessment to help identify your organisation's strengths and weaknesses.

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Financial management
As an officer, you are responsible for the financial sustainability of your organisation and ensuring funds and assets are used to advance your organisation’s charitable purposes. It's critical that financial accounting and reporting systems in your organisation are accurate and transparent.

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Conflict of interest/Pānga Rongorua
A conflict of interest is any situation where a person’s personal interest or loyalties could affect their ability to make a decision in the best interest of the charity. A conflict of interest may be actual, potential or perceived and may be financial or non-financial.

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Charities' obligations under the law
Updated - 20 January 2022

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How to fund your charity
On this page you will find some examples of funding options that are available for New Zealand charities and not-for-profit organisations.

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Tax information
Inland Revenue administers charitable tax exemptions from things such as income tax and resident withholding tax. They also approve donee status which gives tax benefits to people giving donations to your organisation. Inland Revenue generally accepts Charities Services’ decisions regarding charitable registrations, so in most cases tax exemptions and donee status are approved.

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Resolving disputes
Updated 27 September 2024

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Charities operating overseas: protect your charity against terrorist financing and other risks
Protecting your charity against terrorism financing resource.pdf

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Volunteers
Volunteers are vital to the success of many charities. Volunteers contribute their time, without pay, to advise, support, fundraise, govern, coach, educate, organise events, answer emails, prepare reports or to generally “help out “ and make a difference in their communities. 

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Governance information for new officers
The information and resources on this page can help you with running and governing your charity. 

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Charities, elections and political parties
Election time and charities In election years, charities should take special care to ensure their independence from political parties and candidates.   

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