Governance in a Māori context
Strong governance helps charities meet their obligations, operate in line with their rules, and sustain their kaupapa over time.
Governance for Māori charities often reflects tikanga and collective responsibility, with decision‑making shaped by whakapapa, mana, and agreed community roles, alongside legal responsibilities required by law.
Visit our Guidance for running your charity section for information and resources to help you run your charity.
You can also access support, training, and resources from Crown, community, and specialist organisations to help strengthen governance and board capability.
Governance resources
Crown and statutory support
- Te Puni Kōkiri
The Ministry of Māori Development. Provides information, advice, resources and support to help Māori individuals, whānau, hapū, iwi and organisations achieve their aspirations and development goals.
- Te Kooti Whenua Māori
Information and services relating to Māori land, including ownership, trusts, Māori reservations, succession, governance and land development.
- Kaitakawaenga Māori (Inland Revenue)
Free tax advice, information and support for Māori individuals, organisations and businesses.
Governance and board capability
- Appoint Better Boards
Governance resources and board recruitment support.
- Māori and Indigenous Governance Centre
Governance research, training and resources.
- NZ Navigator self-assessment tool
Free online self-assessment tool for community organisations.
Community and marae resources
- CommunityNet Aotearoa
Resources and guidance for community and voluntary organisations.
- Marae Kete
Practical tools and resources to support marae governance and operations.
- Māori Women’s Development Incorporated
Training, mentoring and business development support for wāhine Māori and their whānau.