Has your organisation reregistered? Now is the time to check
As we move closer to 5 April 2026, it is important that every incorporated society in New Zealand confirms whether it has successfully reregistered under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022. The Companies Office is clear that societies wanting to continue operating as incorporated societies must reregister by that date. If they do not, they will be removed from the register on 6 April 2026 and will no longer legally exist.
This is not something to leave to chance.
For associations and other membership organisations, legal status matters. If a society is removed from the register for failing to reregister, the consequences can be significant. According to the Incorporated Societies Register guidance, this may include losing access to bank accounts, needing to re-apply for an IRD number, losing separate legal identity, being unable to sign new contracts in the society’s name, and exposing members to potential personal liability for debts or obligations.
If your organisation believes this has already been sorted, that is good. But now is the time to check and make sure. The official guidance also makes clear that reregistration is not simply a filing exercise. It requires a compliant constitution, a review of operational processes, a general meeting to approve the constitution and the decision to reregister, and then completion of the online application process.
We recommend every association take a moment to confirm its status on the official Incorporated Societies Register. If you are not yet reregistered, or if you are unsure, urgent action is needed.