Governance Overview

What is Governance?

Governance is the system of leadership and decision-making that guides a community organisation. It’s carried out by a board or committee, whose role is to set the vision and direction, make sure the organisation is financially sound, and ensure it meets its legal and ethical responsibilities. Governance is different from day-to-day management – it’s about steering the waka, not paddling it. A strong governance team supports staff and volunteers to deliver the mahi, while keeping the organisation focused on its purpose and long-term goals.

 

Why is Governance Important?

Good governance gives a community organisation direction, keeps it accountable, and ensures resources are used wisely. It builds trust with funders, supporters and the community, and helps organisations make sound, ethical decisions. Strong boards bring together diverse skills and experience, helping organisations face challenges, plan for the future, and ultimately thrive for the benefit of whānau and communities.

 

Useful Websites

Introduction to Governance – Looks at core roles, functions, responsibilities and processes – CommunityNet Aotearoa

NOTE: Community Net has a lot of Governance resources that are contributed by various providers. They do an excellent job of curating their content for quality information. You can save your own list of articles to review later and rate the articles.

 

Not-for-profit Governance – Institute of Directors NZ

 

 

Māori Governance – This information is designed to help trustees and directors of Māori organisations with their responsibilities and role as guardians and leaders – Te Puni Kōkiri

 

Free Governance Tools and Resources – Australian-based but much still relevant to our context – Institute of Community Directors Australia

 

Online self-assessment – Use the self-assessment tool to identify your organisation’s strengths and weaknesses – NZ Navigator Trust

 

Governance Essentials – a governance Hub where you can find resources and information on the essentials of governance – ParryField Lawyers

 

 

Useful Resources 

• Governance Versus Management – SociaLink
• Board Skills Matrix Template (downloadable Excel spreadsheet) – SociaLink
• Officer Declaration for Trusts > Download editable Word doc – SociaLink
• Consent & Certificate of Officer (for Incorporated Societies) – Companies Office NZ
• Delegated Authority Levels Template (downloadable Word doc) – SociaLink
• Officer Kit – Charities Services
• NFP Governance Resources – Institute or Directors
• Legal Handbook for Charities – ParryField Lawyers
• Nine steps to effective governance – Sport NZ 
• Getting on Board: a governance resource for arts organisations – Creative NZ
• Governance Guide pdf – SociaLink

 

Policies & Procedures

Policies and procedures are an important part of good governance, providing the framework for clear, consistent and accountable decision-making – see our Policies & Procedures resource page here.