INCORPORATED SOCIETIES ACT 2022

Information and support for sports clubs

​​​​​​​The Incorporated Societies Act 2022 replaces the Incorporated Societies Act 1908 and introduces updated governance, reporting, and constitutional requirements for all incorporated societies.

The Act came into force on 5 October 2023. All societies that were incorporated under the 1908 Act must re-register and adopt a compliant constitution by 5 April 2026. Societies that do not complete re-registration by this date will be removed from the register and will no longer be legally incorporated.

Sport New Zealand resources

All clubs are strongly encouraged to start with the Sport New Zealand resources. Click the button below to access these.

What clubs need to do

Clubs that are currently incorporated must:

• Review and update their constitution so it meets the new legislative requirements
• Have the new constitution approved by members at an AGM or SGM
• Re-register under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 via the Companies Office

Official guidance ​​​​​​​and templates

Sport New Zealand has developed a comprehensive set of resources to support sport organisations through this process, including:

• Plain-English guidance on what has changed
• Constitution templates that meet the new requirements
• Step-by-step re-registration information

• All clubs are strongly encouraged to start with the Sport New Zealand resources here

Where to get help locally

If your club is affiliated with a Regional Sports Organisation (RSO):

Your first point of contact should be your RSO. RSOs are best placed to support their affiliated clubs and are working with Sport Manawatū to assist through the transition.

If your club is not affiliated with an RSO:

You can contact Sport Manawatū for guidance.

Contact:
David King, david.king@sportmanawatu.org.nz
Please note that Sport Manawatū can provide general guidance and direct clubs to appropriate resources but cannot provide legal advice.

Important reminder

Re-registration is the responsibility of each individual club. Starting early allows time to consult members, update documents, and address any issues before the 5 April 2026 deadline.