Māori organisational structures

Some legal structures used by Māori organisations are similar to those used by non-Māori, whilst others are quite different. This page lists the options.

This page contains information and links from Te Puni Kōkiri’s website for effective governance, http://governance.tpk.govt.nz/.

Some structures suit some purposes better than others. Groups have selected structures to fit their ownership structures, asset base, and goals. Organisations may also change their structure for different stages of development. For more details, see these reports and case studies on Māori organisational governance.

Some groups may even consider multiple structures for different needs — for example having one structure to deal with social/cultural “business” and another for the trading or commercial side of the operation.

Main legal structures

These are the main legal structures used by Māori organisations operating on behalf of multiple owners. Some are followed by links to case studies of successful organisations operating through them.

These links go to http://governance.tpk.govt.nz/. When you've read them you can use your browser's 'Back' button to return to CommunityNet.

• Partnership
• Company
• Shotover Jet Ltd (Publicly listed company)
• Kaikoura Whale Watch, Mai Media (Private companies)
• Charitable Trust
• Ngāti Hine Health Trust
• Incorporated Society
• Māori Trust Board
• Trust
• Structures under Te Ture Whenua Māori Land Act 1993
• Ahu Whenua Trust — Palmerston North Māori Reserve Trust, Lake Taupo Forestry Trust
• Whenua Topu Trust
• Kai tiaki Trust
• Whanau Trust
• Putea Trust
• Māori Incorporation under Ture Whenua Māori Land Act 1993
• Wairarapa Moana Incorporation
• Māori Reservation
• Statutory Body under Act
• Te Wānanga o Raukawa under the Education Act. 

It is essential to consult a lawyer on the type of structure most suitable for a particular purpose, and on the legal requirements for a particular structure.